‘Bridgerton’ author Julia Quinn has defended the decision to “switch the gender” of Michaela Sterling. The writer has reflected on the season three finale which sees Masali Baduza as Francesca Bridgerton’s (Hannah Dodd) love interest, who was originally named Michael in the books but has been changed for the Netflix adaption. She wrote on Instagram: “Thank you to readers and fans for your feedback. I am grateful for your understanding and touched by your deep commitment to the characters of the ‘Bridgerton’ world. “I ask that you grant me and the Shondaland team some faith as we move forward. …