One of South Africa’s own is taking the lead in Ton!
South Africa (25 March 2026) – Netflix and Shondaland have confirmed that Bridgerton is back in production for its fifth season, and South African actress Masali Baduza is set to take centre stage!
Best known for her roles in The Woman King and Noughts + Crosses, the East London-born and Cape Town-raised actress is ready to bring some South African magic to the Regency-era drama as Michaela Stirling.
Masali made her first brief but memorable appearance in the Season 3 finale of the hit show. She then returned for three pivotal episodes in Season 4. Now, in the upcoming Season 5, the Mzansi star will take the spotlight alongside Hannah Dodd.
Dodd plays the introverted middle Bridgerton daughter, Francesca. Two years after the passing of her husband, John, she re-enters the marriage mart for practical intentions. Until Michaela returns…
“But when John’s cousin Michaela returns to London to tend to the Kilmartin estate, Fran’s complicated feelings will have her questioning whether to stick to her pragmatic intentions or pursue her inner passions.”
As they navigate their relationship, our two leading ladies face vulnerabilities and new discoveries that could change everything…
Masali recently celebrated the Season 4 premiere at home in Cape Town. Sharing her joy on social media, she expressed her gratitude for bringing the Ton to home soil.
“YOH YOU GUYS!!! I don’t even have enough words to express my gratitude for the past couple of days. I feel so lucky and proud to be able to share this momentous project at home (!!!) surrounded by family and friends. Enkosini from the bottom of my heart.” she wrote.
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The upcoming season of eight episodes is currently filming in London. With showrunner Jess Brownell and executive producer Shonda Rhimes at the helm, we can expect the wit, romance, and stunning costumes that have made the show an international hit.
We couldn’t be prouder to see Masali representing South Africa in such a massive way!
Bridgerton Seasons 1 – 4 are streaming on Netflix now.
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