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, surpassed even the optimistic projections of the streaming service itself in its first season, gaining 82 million views, Deadline reported on Wednesday.
Bridgerton portrays the life of the upper class in Regency England, giving a subversive view of the period with a colorblind cast and a plot that focuses heavily on women’s lives.
The series launched on December 25 on Netflix 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 this is exactly what is needed,” said director Chris Van Dusen.
“’Bridgerton’ is this luxurious, vibrant and moist love story from the Regency; it’s about romance, love and joy; I think all of these things are really universal themes that people are responding to. “
Netflix tweeted a message of thanks to fans of the show on Wednesday, thanking them for making “Bridgerton” a success.
Regé-Jean Page, who plays The Duke of Hastings, also posted a photo with the entire cast and crew thanking fans for their love and support.
Last week, Netflix announced that Bridgerton will return for a second season and focus on the Bridgerton eldest son, Anthony, played by Jonathan Bailey.
It is not yet clear how many cast members from the first season will return.