WARNING: Spoilers for Bridgerton season 1.
Bridgerton season 2 will presumably feature a war between Anthony and the scheming gossip writer Lady Whistledown. In the original eight Netflix episodes, it's Phoebe and the Duke who receive the most attention, but their conflict resolution suggests that the second installment's focus will shift to different characters. Based on the narrative precedent set in Julia Quinn's eponymous novel series, Bridgerton season 2 will center on Jonathan Bailey's conflicted character, the viscount.
Like so many adaptations, Bridgerton hasn't been entirely faithful to the original book narrative. Storywise, the Lady Whistledown identity reveal doesn't actually take place until the fourth installment in Quinn's franchise - far later than the show reveals this particular plot twist - which does suggest that Netflix is willing to shuffle up the deck in favor of providing juicy twists throughout every season. Still, series creator Chris Van Dusen will likely stay true to the basics, and give each character their chance to shine. Looking ahead, casual Netflix streamers may be expecting another round of romance between Phoebe and her husband Simon in Bridgerton season 2, but that story may indeed be pushed aside to make room for Anthony's on-going identity crisis.
Assuming that Anthony's obsession with legacy and time. Since the Netflix series reveals Lady Whistledown to be Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan), and also positions the character to be the primary villain in Bridgerton season 2, then the viscount's personal life will undoubtedly pique her interest.
Lady Whistledown remains a major wildcard for Bridgerton season 2, because Netflix may choose to significantly alter her storyline, as they have tampered with it to some degree already. So, it's entirely possible that Lady Whistledown will be exposed early on Bridgerton season 2, which would allow for Penelope to develop through experiencing the same plight she subjected others to with her gossip column.
As of now, it seems more likely that Bridgerton season 2, as Penelope's storyline could easily spell downfall for Anthony or herself.