Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, which premieres May 4 on Netflix. It is sure to boast grand balls, steamy sex scenes, and plenty of gossips. As per the hallmarks of the historical-fiction juggernaut. But there’s also likely to be some very real heartbreak along the way. However, the show stays true (or as true as it can while still taking creative licence) to the lives of the real Queen Charlotte and King George III.
“My life as Queen,” intones Rosheuvel as the older Charlotte in the teaser, “was difficult.” Here’s a hint of just what she means, with our primer to the real Queen Charlotte.
What is the show about?

It’s about Queen Charlotte, Lady Danbury and Violet Bridgerton. “While the series will centre on the rise and love life of a young Queen Charlotte. Also, it will tell the stories of young Violet Bridgerton and Lady Danbury,” Netflix said in a press release.
“Many viewers had never known the story of Queen Charlotte before Bridgerton brought her to the world. Also, I’m thrilled this new series will further expand her story and the world of Bridgerton,” added Netflix executive Bela Bajaria.
Lady Danbury and Violet Bridgerton are characters invented by author Julia Quinn. However, Queen Charlotte was a real person. Here’s just the briefest intro to her story. She lived from 1744 to 1818 and married the heir to the English throne when she was a teenager. In the show, she doesn’t seem to have kids of her own. Also, in real life, she had more than 10 children. The thing about knowing Mozart may have been true!
As for her race, she was German, but there’s a theory that she also had African ancestry. As in the series, her husband had cognitive issues later in life. Though he was quite sane at the time of the revolution. You might remember him in Hamilton singing that cheeky “I’ll go mad” line. All details courtesy of this article in The Guardian. Except for the Hamilton line, which I know from Hamilton. Also, the King George facts, which I got from an episode of the podcast Noble Blood.
How Lady Danbury’s Secret Can Develop Her Bridgerton Character

Lady Danbury’s secret past could also explain why no one talks about her children at all in Bridgerton. Plus, the fact no one brings up the scandal surrounding Lady Danbury could mean Queen Charlotte. So, after they grew closer and saved her family from ruin in the aftermath of Anne’s situation. Lady Danbury’s family life is an enigma. Also, understanding what she was like as a young mother could help the audience understand how she came to be who she is in the present. Audiences know she is wealthy and has a lot of influence. Also, there is not much else Bridgerton has revealed about her family thus far.
It’s possible Queen Charlotte and Violet Bridgerton know a lot more about Lady Danbury’s family life. So, the prequel series could illuminate more, developing Lady Danbury into an even more dynamic character.
Revealing Lady Danbury’s family secret could also go a long way to showcase the beginnings of her friendship with Queen Charlotte. Perhaps what happened with Anne solidified their closeness. If Charlotte kept Lady Danbury’s secret, the dowager likely returned the favour when King George fell ill.
Whether or not the Bridgerton prequel dives into Lady Danbury’s family life and secrets remains unclear, but there’s no doubt there is a lot of storytelling potential should it come to light.
Also read: All About Eboni Nichols and Queen Latifah Relationship