This article contains spoilers for Bridgerton season 3 and Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton novels.
Summary
The last episode ofBridgertonseason 3 resolved many plotlines, but also jump-started completely new ones, such as the story of Michaela Stirling. Michaela only makes two brief appearances in the season, yet Julia Quinn’s writings hint that she will play a far larger role later in the series. The appearance of Michaela may seem unassuming, but her introduction hints at the start of a brand-new chapter, both forBridgertonseason 4, and for Francesca.
Notably, Michaela Stirling’s introduction came at a time of great change for Francesca. After playing a very minor role in pastBridgertonseasons, she finally earned a bespoke storyline in season 3. Her new plot was a whirlwind.Francesca went from entering the ton for the first time in episode 1 to leaving for Scotlandwith her new husband in episode 8. Overall, Francesca has been through a lot in a short period of time. Michaela will likely only add to this. In fact, if Netflix stays true toJulia Quinn’sBridgertonbooks, Michaela will be at the center of Francesca’s life changes.
Bridgerton Season 3 New Cast & Returning Character Guide
The third season of Netflix’s Bridgerton brings a mixture of characters that audiences know and love, and brand new faces to learn more about.
Michaela Stirling Is A New Bridgerton Character
Michaela Is John’s Cousin
When she first appears on-screen at the Dankworth-Finch ball,Michaela Stirling is introduced as John Stirling’s cousin. It is revealed that she will be accompanying Francesca and John to Scotland, along with Eloise. From the start, it is clear that Michaela is a charismatic yet perhaps dangerous person. Her first line is “Every sordid detail John has told you about me is a lie. The truth is far worse.” Then, she boldly asks Francesca to introduce herself, leaving thesixth Bridgerton siblingfloundering for words.
Although Michaela seems charming, she may be hiding some dark or irresponsible behavior.
Based on her introduction, some theories can be made about Michaela’s upcoming role inBridgerton.First and foremost, Michaela’s opening line says a lot about her personality. If sheassumes thatJohn would reveal “sordid details” about her, then there must be some truth to these rumors. This is almost confirmed when she confidently claims the truth is much worse. Although Michaela seems charming, she may be hiding some dark or irresponsible behavior, at least by society’s standards. Francesca’s speechless awe hints that she will likely want to learn more about Michaela in the near future.
Michaela Stirling Will Replace 1 Very Important Bridgerton Character
Michaela Stirling Likely Represents Michael Stirling
The following section includes spoilers for Julia Quinn’s “When He Was Wicked.”
With the help of Julia Quinn’s bookWhen He Was Wicked, Michaela Stirling’s role inBridgertonbecomes clear. Based on her name, Michaela islikely to take the place of the book character, Michael Stirling. Like Michaela, Michael is John Stirling’s cousin. He is first introduced, on the page, at a supper celebrating Francesca and John’s imminent marriage. Most importantly though,Michael is the man Francesca is destined to marryafter John tragically passes away. Seemingly, Michaela will take on this role during Francesca’s upcoming season.
The Duke and I
On the Way to the Wedding
Gregory
Although Michaela and Francesca’s romance may seem surprising, it has already been hinted at inBridgertonseason 3. When Francesca first meets Michaela, she is at a clear loss for words. This reaction harks back to an earlier conversation where Violet revealed that she could barely speak to Francesca’s father when they first met. Violet acknowledges that Francesca doesn’t act like that with John, but perhaps their love is simply different. Now, however, it seems thatFrancesca has found that breathless, speechless kind of love with Michaela.
Who Plays Michaela Stirling In Bridgerton
Masali Baduza Is Michaela Stirling
Michaela Stirling is played by South African actress, Masali Baduza. Born in East London, South Africa, Baduza has been acting since 2017. Her career began on the stage, but she soon picked up notable on-screen roles. Her first project was 2019’sTrackers.In 2020, she earnedher breakout role as Sephy Hadley in the drama series,Noughts + Crosses.Since then, she has appeared inThe Woman King,and now,Bridgerton.If Baduza stays in her role as Michaela Stirling, it is likely thatBridgertonviewers will see a lot more of her in the show’s future.
Overall, the introduction of Masali Baduza as Michaela Stirling is incredibly exciting forBridgerton.Bringing Michaela onto the scene hints that Francesca’s love story is forthcoming. Even ifBridgertonseason 4 isn’t her season, her story could still play out in season 5. Additionally, Baduza’s casting represents a major and excitingBridgertonbook change.Making Francesca’s love story into an LGBTQ+ relationshipadds a new layer of interest and representation toBridgerton.Ultimately, the future looks bright forBridgerton,and Michaela Stirling will only heighten anticipation for what’s ahead.
Bridgerton
Cast
Bridgerton, released on June 07, 2025, is set in Regency-era England and follows the lives of the influential Bridgerton family. The series explores themes of wealth, lust, and betrayal, portraying societal dynamics through a blend of romance and intrigue.
