The hit show “Bridgerton” is officially the most watched Netflix original series in the company’s history.
The show, based on a book of the same name by Julia Quinn, even surpassed the streaming service’s own rosy projections in the first season by earning 82 million views, Deadline reported Wednesday.
Bridgerton portrays the life of the upper class in the English regency and provides a subversive look at the period with color-blind casting and a storyline that focuses heavily on women’s lives.
The series was released on Netflix on December 25 and was described by GQ Magazine as a combination of ‘Gossip Girl’ and ‘Downton Abbey’.
“I think the show really offers an incredible escape for the audience at a time when that’s exactly what’s needed,” said director Chris Van Dusen.
“’Bridgerton’ is this luscious, vibrant, steamy Regency love story; it’s about romance, love and joy; I think all those things are really universal themes that people respond to. “
Netflix tweeted a message of appreciation to fans of the show on Wednesday, thanking them for making “Bridgerton” a hit.
Regé-Jean Page, who plays The Duke of Hastings, also posted a photo where the entire cast and crew thanked fans for their love and support.
Last week, Netflix announced that Bridgerton is returning for a second season and will focus on the older Bridgerton child, Anthony, played by Jonathan Bailey.
It remains unclear how many of the show’s first season cast will return.