London, 14 June 2024 — Netflix and Shondaland have announced that the “Bridgerton” franchise has injected over £250 million into the UK economy and supported nearly 5,000 businesses over the past five years. To celebrate this milestone and the release of Part 2 of “Bridgerton’s” third season, Shondaland CEO Shonda Rhimes rang the opening bell at the London Stock Exchange today.
Shonda Rhimes CBE, CEO of Shondaland, expressed her pride, stating, “The Bridgerton universe holds a unique place in culture, resonating across generations, sparking trends, and influencing everything from baby names to weddings. The shows have significantly boosted the UK economy, contributing £250 million and supporting thousands of jobs and businesses.”
Anna Mallett, VP Production EMEA at Netflix, praised the global impact of Shonda Rhimes’ storytelling, saying, “Bridgerton showcases Shonda Rhimes’ exceptional talent and our dedication to creating captivating stories. The series has not only provided an economic boost but also made a substantial cultural impact.”
The series’ influence extends beyond the screen. Visit West reported a £5 million boost in tourism to areas like Bath and Bristol, where the show is set. Kiddies Kingdom noted a 51% increase in the name Daphne, a 27% rise in Eloise, and a 26% increase in Colin from 2020-2021. Vitamin String Quartet’s streams surged by 350% following Season 1’s premiere in 2020.
Julia Hoggett, CEO of the London Stock Exchange plc, welcomed the celebration, remarking, “We are delighted to honor the significant economic and cultural impact of Bridgerton. Our Exchange, dating back to the early 1800s, continues to support companies in raising capital and fostering growth.”
Theresa Wise, CEO of the Royal Television Society, highlighted the show’s success, stating, “Bridgerton is a prime example of outstanding storytelling and British talent, delivering over £250 million to the UK economy and creating local jobs.”
The Bridgerton phenomenon illustrates the powerful impact of art and culture on both local economies and global culture, emphasizing the synergy between entertainment and economic development.
