Sad news for all the thirsty ladies (and men) out there—but the actor Regé-Jean Page, who played Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings, in the hit Netflix period drama Bridgerton, will not be coming back to reprise his role in season 2.
Image: Bridgerton, Netflix
Page’s departure from the show was announced on the official Bridgerton social media account, and by Lady Whistledown herself—the mysterious columnist-slash-gossiper in the show. The letter reads:
Dearest Readers,
While all eyes turn to Lord Anthony Bridgerton’s quest to find a Viscountess, we bid adieu to Regé-Jean Page, who so triumphantly played the Duke of Hastings. We’ll miss Simon’s presence onscreen, but he will always be a part of the Bridgerton family. Daphne will remain a devoted wife and sister, helping her brother navigate the upcoming social season and what it has to offer—more intrigue and romance more than my readers may be able to bear.
Your Truly,
Lady Whistledown
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The internet is v disappointed, as expected. Page became Bridgerton’s breakout star, as the show smashed records and became Netflix’s most-watched series ever. The show was created by Shonda Rhimes, the same creator behind the long-running drama Grey’s Anatomy.
Page commented on the announcement post, writing, “It’s been an absolute pleasure and a privilege! Joining this family—the connection on and off-screen, with our cast, our crew, all the incredible fans, has been like nothing I could have ever imagined. The love is real and will just keep growing.”
Shonda Rhimes also tweeted: “Remember: the Duke is never gone. He’s just waiting to be binge watched all over again. ”
Remember: the Duke is never gone. He’s just waiting to be binge watched all over again. #ShondalandMenOnNetflixAreForever pic.twitter.com/e4fAhuKSku
— shonda rhimes (@shondarhimes) April 2, 2021
Could this mean the steamy duke is getting his own show? ?? I guess we’ll find out.
How do you feel about the duke leaving the show? Let us know what you think in the comments!
ALSO READ: LOOK: Andrea Torres is Gorgeous in “Bridgerton” Inspired Photoshoot
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