In the late 2010s, Netflix’s slate of original programming took up an unusual space in the TV landscape, but with the advent of its steamiest romance series to date, the streaming platform changed its trajectory. While Netflix has been able to build its credibility as a creator of original content with buzzy titles and critical darlings, the platform was struggling to define itself with the 2020s on the horizon.

Outside of Netflix’s occasional hits at the time, like Stranger Things, many of the streaming platform’s originals arrived quietly, found a small niche audience who enjoyed it, and then disappeared from both the broader conversation and the platform’s future plans. With Netflix going through a period of change, it was clear that the platform needed a hit to jettison it to the next chapter.

That reinvention began to take shape five years ago, when Netflix released what quickly became its steamiest romance series to date. While the streaming platform had been able to lean into programming that offered an escape to viewers, the show’s track record with romance hadn’t been strong. Prioritizing a series that viewers could fall into, Netflix chose to release a lavish, lush romance series that changed the game.

Bridgerton Changed Netflix’s Programming Forever When It Released 5 Years Ago On Christmas

Rege Jean Pege and Phoebe Dynevor at a ball looking at something offscreen in BridgertonImage by Yeider Chacon

Although it likely feels like it’s been around for longer, Bridgerton was released on Christmas Day in 2020, marking its fifth anniversary this year. When the series debuted on Netflix in 2020, it quickly became one of the platform’s most-watched original series ever. Produced by Shonda Rhimes and based on Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton book series, the regency-era romance stood out for its bold mix of period drama and modernity.

With viewers quickly enamored with the Bridgerton family and those who surrounded them, Netflix knew they had a hit on their hands right away. The show is known for its diverse casting, lush costuming and sets, and its unapologetically steamy storytelling. As many grew more comfortable and interested in spicy content, Netflix was able to position Bridgerton as an adult romantic drama in exactly the right moment.

2026 Will See The Release Of Bridgerton Season 4

Benedict looking fondly at Eloise, who is out of frame, at Colin and Penelope's reception in Bridgerton season 3

As 2026 comes into view, Bridgerton is still one of the biggest shows on the streaming platform, and its upcoming season will double down on its success. Bridgerton season 4 will hit Netflix this January, continuing the anthology-style approach of storytelling its known for. This season will focus on Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) as he finds love in the most unlikely of places.

Bridgerton's Jonathan Bailey and Simone AshleyImage via Netflix

The success of Bridgerton wasn’t an isolated incident, which is exciting for romance lovers. In the show’s wake, streaming platforms have been turning to romance novels as source material, creating masterful page-to-screen adaptations. Netflix, in particular, has leaned into this trend after its initial success. Five years after its debut, Bridgerton is still shaping the way romance can work its way to the screen.