There’s nothing more intoxicating than the joy, theory, and ecstasy that filled Bridgerton’ s opening week. After two years, the beloved Netflix series returns on May 16—this time, focusing on the love between fan-favorite Colin and Penelope (aka Lady Whistle) story.
Naturally, meme-worthy moments abound. After all, the two protagonists of Bridgerton Season 3 have known each other for a long time. As showrunner Jess Brownell recently told Bustle, it's given the show a lighter, rom-com feel, which this season is inspired by Nora Ephron, Richard Curtis and countless classic teen movies.
So far, only the first four episodes have dropped, and readers know there's bound to be some drama going on between Colin and Penelope. "We're in a topsy-turvy world in a lot of ways," Brownell said of the second half of the season, which airs June 13. "If the first part is a romantic comedy, the second half gets into a very tense place because Penelope as Lady Whistledown has a huge secret that hangs over everything."
But in the meantime, rejoice in the best memes and tweets from Bridgerton Season 3.
Contoni's marriage era
Season 2 was iconic — but also intense. So for many viewers, it was a pleasure to see Kate and Anthony basking in that post-honeymoon stress-free glow.
"Anthony's eyes were filled with reverence and Kate's eyes were filled with love," one user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, describing the pair's interaction before their impromptu desk hookup. "It's incredible how much chemistry you can create just by staring."
"She gave him a gentle tap of her thumb on his cheek and his confused puppy face," said another. "Oh, they are really married."
Newton's return
Speaking of puppies... Viewers were also delighted by the return of Kate's corgi Newton, who was unfairly banned from the bedroom when his parents were alone. One fan wrote: "They locked Newton out of his bedroom and oh my god they are going to hell."
"Poor kid," said another, alongside a photo of Newton sitting outside Cantoni's door.
But it's clear that Kate and Anthony have nothing but love for the little guy, who has a portrait of himself hanging on his bedroom wall, according to Architectural Digest 's visit.
"Newton was just as loved as Katherine's children," one fan noted, while another wondered if Benedict had painted the tribute.
A new ship appears
Viewers were also fascinated by Francesca and John Stirling's budding relationship, with one fan saying they had "never seen so much chemistry between two quiet people".
Another fan loved the pair's "most tender and sweet first meeting" as they enjoyed a quiet moment together. This is unlike any other Bridgerton relationship.
Colin's Jealousy
The main attraction—Colin and Penelope’s story arc from friends to lovers—provided ample fodder for fan reactions. Specifically, viewers loved seeing him finally pining for Penelope after years of crushing on her.
"He looked ready to throw up and ugly cry because he was so jealous... I'm booming," wrote one viewer of Penelope's dance with Lord Dumblenn.
Another fan wrote: "VINDICATIONNNNNN."
"How to turn things around," one X user said, referring to Penelope's past times watching Colin perform on the dance floor.
Cute embarrassment
Most of all, fans are excited for Colin and Penelope's adorable (and sometimes silly) path from friends to lovers — like when they met after a kiss in the second episode. Shy, smiling, nervous, oh my god," one fan wrote.
Another viewer said: "Dua Lipa was right, just one kiss is enough." He was referring to Colin's stuttering when Penelope appeared in the conversation.
