Bridgerton fans think new series has one character that might be 'autistic-coded'

Fans of Bridgerton have praised the show for its representation of characters with disabilities.

In particular, fans have praised one character, which they say has been coded to have traits that could be seen in people with different types of neurodivergence.

The show is now entering its third season on Netflix, with part one released last week (May 16), and fans have been heaping praise on the hugely popular drama.

While the series has been noted for its representation of characters with disabilities, fans have remarked on characters they think possess traits often found in people with autism - one character being Francesca Bridgerton (played by Hannah Dodd).

Even though this season focuses on friends-to-lovers Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) and Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan), fans also get to know other members of the Bridgerton clan more intimately - Francesca being one of them.

They wrote: "No one call tell me differently. Francesca Bridgerton is autistic. Like she is introverted, hates big events and meeting new people. Also she is obsessed with music. That’s all signs leading to be autistic."

Another reflected: "Thinking how John and Francesca are so autistic and ADHD coded. That scene between Fran and John where she tells him her thoughts on a musical piece and John quickly marches away as he looks at the player and later on we find out why he did that and I'm like...baby boy."

Fans praised the show's representation. (Netflix)

Now to be clear, the show has not explicitly said that these characters definitely are autistic or definitely have conditions such as ADHD, but many fans spotted clues in the way they are written, which could suggest traits of those conditions.

And if people can see representation in a show as popular as Bridgerton, that can only be a good thing.

Not only that, but Bridgerton being a period drama and having such representation acts as a counter to the misconception that conditions such as autism and ADHD are 'new'.

Many fans shared their admiration for the representation in the show.

One wrote: "Can we just talk about the disability representation in #BridgertonS3 for a minute?

Francesca in particular drew praise. (Netflix)

"Not only is there a deaf actress using BSL to communicate on-screen, there's also an eligible suitor in a wheelchair. Not to mention the fact that Fran & John are autistic coded AF."

Another posted: "Francesca and Lord Stirling are so autistic coded and I love every moment of their interactions.

"My perfect babies who just want to sit next to each other in silence."

Bridgerton is available to stream on Netflix.