While Lord Döblin wasn't the original author of Julia Quinn's Bridgerton novels, the eccentric character played an important role in the books. Season 3, as a potential suitor for Penelope - a possible match that frightens Colin into confessing his feelings to the youngest Featherington. Since Quinn has not planned his future, this has become a source or wild speculation online.
According to a theory from a fan who went viral on Reddit, a failed courtship with Penelope might not be Deblin's only problem. He could be in serious danger.
In Season 3, Episode 4, Penelope picks up a book about the Northwest Passage, a journey Döblin plans to embark on. Döblin's research means he will be gone for a long time, and Colin reiterates this to Penelope. "I already know that, Colin! It took him a year just to get to his goal," she said, furious that he was blocking her prospect of proposing.
So, where does Döblin go? As Reddit user u/HumbleInterest explained in a May 19 post, the Northwest Passage is a subject of "national concern" among Britons because the route would provide a route for European explorers to the Pacific via Arctic waters.
But, as Döblin says, this is a "legendary" route. Many explorers died searching for it. (For example, AMC's The Terror dramatized the ill-fated Franklin Expedition.)
"Of all the places that can be sailed in the Arctic, this was an extremely dangerous trip even back then," the user wrote. "Deblin's lack of success in the 30 years since the end of this season may indicate that this is a voyage from which Deblin is unlikely to return."
But don’t write him off just yet. Actor Sam Phillips, who plays the character, told the Daily Express that "it's possible that Döblin could return in the future."
another potential path
This isn't the only theory about Döblin. Some fans speculated that he would be a good match for Eloise, given that she was hesitant to get married. If Döblin leaves for an extended period of time—or, you know, dies—then Héloïse can maintain her independence and escape the marriage market.
