Shonda Rhimes sat down for an interview with Vanity Fair with co-producer Betsy Beers about the success of her Netflix series, “Bridgerton,” but the TV veteran shays she was “shocked” by fans reactions to the news that heartthrob that Regé-Jean Page would not be returning for a second season.
The actor’s smoldering looks and steamy sex scenes catapulted him to sex symbol status overnight. Viewers were looking forward to seeing what moves Page, who played the delectable Duke of Hastings, has in store for them in season two.
But, alas, he will not be returning.
“I was really shocked because usually, that happens when I’ve killed off somebody that’s been around for a while. Like, we didn’t kill him, he’s still alive!” Rhimes told the publication. “[Page] is a powerful, amazing actor and that meant we did our job — every season, our job is finding the right people and putting together this incredible, world-shifting romance.”
Rhimes continued: “I don’t know that I expected this much of an explosion, given that every book [in the “Bridgerton” series] is a different romance. What would be the ever-after of this combo? I mean, really: What would Regé-Jean do, you know what I mean? We gave them their happily ever after! And now we have this next couple coming. And so yeah, I was like, whoa!”
Page made the announcement earlier this month via his social media.
“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,” the announcement began.
“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. Yours truly, Lady Whistledown,” the post concluded.
