The popular period drama Bridgerton is set to return for a second season. The show is based on Julia Quinn's best-selling novels of the same name. Season two will resume production in spring 2021 in London. The next season will focus on Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey).
However, in a heartbreaking letter by Lady Whistledown, it was announced that Rege-Jean Page, who played the role of Simon aka Duke of Hastings, is not going to be a part of the second season. She wrote, "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." Acknowledging that he and his character Simon will still always be a part of the Bridgerton family, the note added that Daphne, his wife the Duchess of Hastings, played by Phoebe Dynevor, "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."
Page responded on Twitter. “Pleasure and a privilege! An honour to be a member of the family – on and off screen, cast, crew and incredible fans – the love is real and will just keep growing,” he wrote.
Pleasure and a privilege! An honour to be a member of the family - on and off screen, cast, crew and incredible fans - the love is real and will just keep growing https://t.co/YBk4RvKNpx
— Regé-Jean Page (@regejean) April 2, 2021
The first season followed the families of British high society and their romantic pursuits through the lens of a mysterious gossip columnist, Lady Whistledown. The Netflix show proved to be an immediate success, with Rege-Jean Page (Duke of Hastings) and Phoebe Dynevor (Daphne Bridgerton) getting star status however, with Rege-Jean's exit, looks like the fan following is going to be affected in the next season.
(Source: Instagram)