A Nod to Colin Firth's Mr. Darcy is the Hottest Thing Bridgerton Has Done So Far
Bridgerton, the period drama series set in the Regency era, has been making waves since 2020 for its steamy romance and cheeky twists on period tropes.
One scene in particular has captured the hearts of viewers around the world: when Anthony Bridgerton falls into a lake and emerges dripping wet in a white shirt.
Those in the know immediately caught the homage to the 1995 Pride and Prejudice miniseries. In that adaptation, Mr. Darcy (Colin Firth ) is seen strolling through the countryside when he comes upon a lake.
As he stands on the bank, thinking moodily about (we assume) Elizabeth Bennet, he strips off his jacket and waistcoat before plunging into the water.
The scene is accompanied by a stirring musical score, and when Mr. Darcy emerges he's in a wet, clingy white shirt – basically naked, in Regency terms – and he runs into Elizabeth herself. Swoon.
Bridgerton's dip in the water is a little more lighthearted.
Anthony, who has been struggling with his own personal demons and the weight of familial responsibility, is brooding on the side of the lake as he watches his love interest, Kate Sharma, take a boat ride with another man.
When he struggles to one-up his rival, Anthony trips over MVP Newton the Corgi and falls into the water. It's a moment of surprise and amusement for Kate and viewers alike.
The way the scene is shot is gorgeous, with the colors and lighting perfectly capturing the mood of the moment. The camera angles and slow-motion shots add to the drama and make the scene feel like a cinematic experience.
Of course, it's different from the moody romance of the P&P original. In part, the Bridgerton scene is sexy because it showcases a different side of Anthony's character – one that is vulnerable, clumsy, and endearing.
By showing us this side of Anthony, the scene humanizes him and makes him more relatable. The vulnerability is important for his character development, as it allows him to start letting go of his ego and begin to open up to Kate.
The scene is also steamy because it highlights the chemistry between Anthony and Kate. Despite the humour of the situation, Kate's attraction to him in the moment is palpable.
The scene sets the stage for their budding romance, while also giving viewers a fun homage to an iconic classic.
Also – well. Anthony Bridgerton in a translucent, clingy shirt. Need we say more?