India, Jan. 30 -- If there's one show that continues to captivate audiences year after year, it's Bridgerton. The hit period drama has now returned for its fourth season, and the first reviews are already pouring in, revealing a mix of delight, nostalgia, and inevitable comparison.

The season opens on familiar yet fresh territory. The Bridgerton household is abuzz with preparations as Lady Violet Bridgerton (Ruth Gemmell) readies for the family's reunion. The opening sequence shows the family back together - except for one notable absence: Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson), the central figure of Season 4.

While Season 3's newlyweds, Penelope (Nicola Coughlan) and Colin (Luke Newton) tend to their baby, Francesca (Hannah Dodd), Eloise ...