Things are certainly looking more positive for Penelope Featherington on the marriage mart in Bridgerton season 3. However, one thing fans can't put their finger on is, was Lord Debling in the Bridgerton books?
Penelope spent three seasons on the marriage mart, coming out with no prospects, but this third season sets a different tone with Lord Debling and Colin Bridgerton in the picture.
Find out more about Debling's role and existence here.
Lord Debling — Is He Canon in the Bridgerton Novels or Not?
There's no question that Bridgerton season 3 would see Penelope Featherington end up with her longtime, one-sided love with Colin Bridgerton.
However, let's not forget that Colin is never one to make haste when it comes to realizing his feelings. So he would definitely require some sort of metaphorical push towards Pen. Enter Lord Alfred Debling (played by Sam Phillips).
Lord Debling is an "outsider" who is interested in "other things outside of the norms of society." He's described to be someone who "loves wildlife", is a conservationist, and is a vegetarian — all of which would catch Penelope's attention.
Did he exist in the original novel, Romancing Mister Bridgerton?
Those who have read the books would likely tell you the same answer: No, Lord Debling did not exist in the books.
According to showrunner Jess Brownell, Lord Debling is a "ticking clock for Colin." As the showrunner continues, Debling is an essential equation in making Colin realize how Pen could easily slip away from his fingers once Debling shows up as her suitor.
READ MORE: Is Lord Debling Really A Vegetarian? Bridgerton S3 Throws Fans A Curveball
Two Key Differences Bridgerton Season 3 Changed From the Books
One of the things to consider in the timeline of Bridgerton season 3: Penelope and Colin's romance happened in the fourth book in the series rather than the third, which means they were supposed to be much older than they are on the show.
Canonically, Pen was a spinster who was never courted. She was never anyone's love interest, and the most attention she had was from singleton men whose mothers asked them to take her to the dance floor.
Their romance sparked when Pen requested Colin for a kiss, something she has never (and probably will never) experienced in her lifetime. It was only right after that Colin slowly began to peel his hidden desire for Pen.
Since Lord Debling is a new part of the story, the jealousy trope would likely work in Penelope's favor, should Colin need an exterior factor to push him to go towards Penelope and get their happily ever after.
READ NEXT: Decoding Bridgerton Season 3 Episode Titles: Fans Have the Wildest Theories
The first four episodes of Bridgerton season 3 premiere on Netflix on May 16.
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