Regé-Jean Page's return as Simon Basset in Netflix's adaptation of Julia Quinn's Bridgerton book series has been the talk of the town, and it's understandable.
When it was announced that Page would not return for Season 2 of Bridgerton, what happened to his fans? Despite reports that he would not return for Season 3, the Duke of Hastings actor took to Instagram to declare that he would not be returning for the program.
Regé-Jean Page Isn't Considering Returning To Bridgerton
Despite rumors that Duke William might make a comeback in Season 3, it is clear now that it will not happen. Considering he would not be the main focus of Bridgerton Season 3, it was a smart move with all the opportunities he had lined up. In a separate interview with Variety, Page expressed similar sentiments about his conversation with Rhimes.
It makes sense that Simon Basset has seemingly completed the Simon's story in Season 1, and the much-needed attention offered by Phoebe Dynevor's Daphne in Season 2, as he continues to pursue other roles that he has benefited from. Besides, it is wise for the actor to maximize his newfound popularity. Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is a popular game, but would it be possible to get another Simon Basset?
Simon Basset's Potential Recast in Season 3
For Bridgerton Season 3, the showrunners would have chosen Hannah Dodd (Anatomy of a Scandal) as their replacement. Page even expressed his support for the recasting.
Dynevor stated that she will not be playing Page in Season 3, but that she will return for future seasons. With Dynevor's departure, the likelihood of seeing the couple in future seasons seems slim, making the need to rewrite the role of Simon Basset null. However, if luck strikes, and the Duke and Duchess of Hastings return in later seasons, it will be exciting to see who fills Page's shoes.
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