‘Bridgerton’ Season 2 is an ode to sisterhood

Bridgerton may be renowned for the premise of grand romance and true love: stolen glances and fits of passion set amidst floral clusters, candlelit ballrooms, and the general refinery of the ton. Yes, romantic love sits at the crux of the drama, but its second season shares equal space with the theme of sisterhood, portrayed this time around with not only the title family but the Sharma sisters.

The newcomers, Kate and Edwina Sharma — played by Simone Ashley and Charithra Chandran, respectively — tell a complex, sentimental tale of the bond between sisters.

Sibling dynamics are not new territory for Bridgerton, of course. The first season laid the foundation of a family story. Although Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor) and Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page) had a steamy storyline that stole headlines, the dynamic of the Bridgerton family sat at the forefront of the eight episodes we encountered mid-pandemic. Think: Eloise and Daphne’s existing worlds apart, Benedict and Eloise bonding over late night chats, and Anthony being extremely protective over Daphne throughout her courtship with Hastings.

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Everything to remember going into ‘Bridgerton’ Season 2

Still, Season 2 explored a sisterhood unlike before. Kate’s deep love for her half-sister manifests in monologues about Edwina’s many talents, endless pickiness over a suitable partner for Edwina, and soothing pearls of wisdom on Edwina’s wedding day. Though there’s plenty more going on in the ton, the Sharma sisters remain the pulse of Season 2.

Even in the matter of core love triangle, Kate’s love for Edwina prevails. Although she is caught in the throes of her own feelings towards the viscount, Kate’s dedication to her sister never truly wavers. Yes, she is unable to keep away from him entirely (and vice versa) and while an ethical quandary does exist here, it’s also hard to deny the fact that she remains dedicated to ensuring Edwina’s happiness despite her own torment. Kate may be caught in the web of this trying conflict, but her devotion to her sister triumphs, stopping her from truly pursuing Anthony.

Actors Simone Ashley and Charithra Chandran in a still from Bridgerton, sitting on a couch with Ashley holding a corgi in her lap.

Kate and Edwina…and Newton.
Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

Edwina, on the other hand, feels a sense of betrayal — and rightfully so — when she identifies the love Anthony and Kate share (notably, at an extremely public and rather late moment). It’s a sad blip in the love story of the Sharma sisters, but actually points to the strength of their connection. A secret like this has the ability to cause such a significant tear because honesty and loyalty lie at the core of their relationship otherwise. Bridgerton‘s writers handled this thread gracefully, as did the actors who shaped their performances to reflect the love, pain, and attachment Kate and Edwina struggle with during this revelation.

As an Older Sister, the bond between Kate and Edwina resonated with me far more than other relationship portrayed in the frothy world of Bridgerton. My own younger sister texted me while watching the show, saying Kate reminds her of myself (I’ll take it as a compliment). I also saw the two of us within the dynamic of the sisters, not only because of their shared South Asian heritage. The Sharma sisters are symbols of a universal sisterhood, one that I have experienced for 22 years in my own household. I see us in the fierce protectiveness of Kate, in Edwina’s adoration, in their differences, and in the ultimate understanding that their greatest hope is for the other to be happy.

The Sharma sisters are symbols of a universal sisterhood, one that I have experienced for 22 years in my own household.

Edwina’s caterpillar-to-butterfly arc also points to the power of sisterly love. In the aftermath of her broken engagement, Edwina takes control of her own narrative, somewhat shedding societal expectations, and even winning over the Queen with her newfound strength and conviction. After processing everything and given severe perspective when Kate is in peril, she is able to assume a position of care and courage for Kate, too, guiding her older sister in her own time of crisis following the accident and her will-they-won’t-they equation with Anthony.

“Be the sister I know that you are,” Edwina counsels Kate in episode 8. “Be funny and brave and feeling. Be unafraid to follow your heart after doing the exact opposite for far too long. You have spent so much of your time shining your light on me. It is time for you to shine all on your own.”

The tables truly turn in this moment, with Edwina speaking the kind of words that Kate would have once been quick to deliver. As Edwina finds her own path to personal growth, the seeds are planted for a stronger relationship for the two to share, one which continues to centre their exceptional connection.

Actresses Simone Ashley and Charithra Chandran in a still from "Bridgerton" sitting in an opulent garden.

“It is time for you to shine all on your own.”
Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

Edwina’s words will feel familiar to many sisters, who know their other half is more worthy of love, happiness, and adventure than they might realise. As the relationship between the Sharmas evolves, I saw nothing but a deepening care, even more so as Edwina finds her own place in the world, while supporting Kate’s own journey.

In another moment in the final episode of Season 2, Kate and Edwina take to the dance floor, together, disregarding judgement from onlookers. As they take hands and dance, it’s clear that they’ll never be alone with the other by their side. The Sharmas smile and laugh, choosing each other in that instance. I know the feeling. Sisters are partners in life and all that comes with it, against the rest and despite the noise.