It’s a sad day forBridgertonfans: Breakout starRegé-Jean Pageis officially leaving the series after one season.
“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,” the note read. “We’ll miss Simon’s presence onscreen, but he will always be a part of theBridgertonfamily.”
The letter noted thatPhoebe Dynevor, who played the Duke’s love interest Daphne Bridgerton, will return: “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.”
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Page, 31, addressed news onInstagramwith a photo of himself on horseback as the Duke.
“The ride of a life time,” he wrote. “It’s been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to be your Duke. Joining this family — not just on screen, but off screen too. Our incredibly creative and generous cast, crew, outstanding fans — it’s all been beyond anything I could have imagined. The love is real and will just keep growing.”
Regé-Jean Page and Phoebe Dynevor inBridgerton.Netflix

“Remember: the Duke is never gone,” Rhimes, 51, said onInstagramafter news broke of Page’s exit. “He’s just waiting to be binge watched all over again. #ShondalandMenOnNetflixAreForever.”
LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX

When news regarding the sophomore season’s premise emerged earlier this year, questions regarding Page and Dynevor’s futures on the series came into question. Van Dusen previously said he hoped to see the pair return.
“I hope so,” the series creator said onToday. “They are now of course the Duke and Duchess of Hastings, but in my mind they will always be Bridgertons and I think they will always be part of the show.”
Page is next set to appear in the filmsThe Gray ManandDungeons & Dragons. He has sparked rumors about taking overthe coveted role of James BondafterDaniel Craigsteps down later this year.
source: people.com