Rege-Jean Page will not be returning for the upcoming second season of Bridgerton, it has been confirmed.
The 31-year-old played Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, in the hit Netflix period drama and was one of the breakout stars when it debuted over Christmas.
The announcement of his departure was made in a letter from the show's narrator Lady Whistledown, who wrote: "Dear Readers, while all eyes turn to Lord Anthony Bridgerton's quest to find a Viscountess, we bid adieu to Rege-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.
"Yours truly, Lady Whistledown."
In his own statement, Page said: "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."
Filming of the new season is expected to begin next month.
Follow us on Twitter @SMEntsFeed and like us on Facebook for the latest entertainment news alerts.
