Rest assured Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings is alive and (we assume) doing well in Bridgerton Season 2. You just can’t see him.
Despite rumors to the contrary, actor Rege-Jean Page – whose exit announcement sent shockwaves through the TV business last April – has no cameo in the second season of the hugely popular Netflix Regency-era drama, which premieres Friday -appearance. However, EP Chris Van Dusen says the character’s presence is felt.
“We’re referring to Simon,” Van Dusen tells TVLine. “In the very first scene of season 2, Daphne mentions that she left her husband and baby at home [to be there for Eloise’s debut]. Unfortunately, Rege didn’t work out to be a part of season two, but he will always be Bridgerton’s duke. He’s not going anywhere in the world of the show. And just because we don’t see him doesn’t mean he’s not there.”
Fun fact: Even though the Duke is MIA, his son with Daphne – whose name is (SPOILER!) August – gets quite a bit of screen time.
Last year, Page explained his decision to leave the show before Season 2, telling Variety, “Simon was this bombshell of a season antagonist who needed to be reformed and find his true self through Daphne. I think one of the bravest things in the love genre is giving people happy endings.”
Are you disappointed that there won’t be a trace of Simon (Page) in Bridgerton Season 2? Were you also hoping for a cameo appearance? Write your thoughts in the comments.