In news that will devastate Bridgeton fans, the show has just confirmed that the Duke of Hasting, played by mega babe Regé-jean Page will not be returning for season two of the historic drama.
The sad news dropped earlier this morning via a note from none other than Lady Whistledown. The note read: “Dear 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 than my readers may be able to bear.”
It hurts the heart, it really does.
Despite wishing this was a terrible April Fool’s joke, the news appears to very much be true, with Page also taking to his Instagram account to bid farewell to the handsome and often misunderstood Duke of Hastings.
As reported back in January, season two of the anthology series will focus on Lord Anthony Bridgerton's quest for true love—with tips from his younger sister Daphne.
And before you cry a river for Page (don’t worry, we did too), the actor told Variety exclusively that he is at peace with his character’s early departure and that this was always on the cards.
“I have nothing but excitement for ‘Bridgerton’ continuing to steam train off and conquer the globe,” he said to Variety. “But there is also value in completing these arcs and sticking the landing.”
Look it still hurts, and it seems even the show’s creator Shonda Rhimes is missing the Duke just as much as us. She posted a picture of the Duke to her Instagram page with the caption, “Remember: the Duke is never gone. He’s just waiting to be binge watched all over again,” with the hashtag #ShondalandMenOnNetflixAreForever.
While we’re crossing our fingers for some sort of cameo from Page, we might just have to take Rhimes’ advice and re-watch the entire first seasons for the 18th time.
Or if you’re looking for something new, check out these shows that are just like Bridgerton.
Image Credit: Netflix