Rege-Jean Page will not return for the second season of record-breaking Regency romance "Bridgerton," Netflix said Friday, prompting howls of despair from fans of the dashing Duke of Hastings.
The wildly popular series from "Grey's Anatomy" creator Shonda Rhimes puts a modern twist on the books about an upper-class family in early 19th-century England, including color-blind casting.
British-Zimbabwean actor Page was a breakout star for the first season, but his character's storylines largely conclude in the opening volume of Julia Quinn's original books, which each follow a different sibling of the Bridgerton family.
"Dearest 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," said a letter on the show's Twitter account.
"We'll miss Simon's presence onscreen, but he will always be a part of the Bridgerton family."
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In January, Netflix announced that "Bridgerton" had become the streaming platform's most popular new series, watched by over 82 million households.
It cast several Black actors in high-society roles -- including Page -- despite the fact slavery was only abolished in 1833 in England and racism was rife.
"Remember: the Duke is never gone," wrote Rhimes on Instagram. "He's just waiting to be binge watched all over again."
But some fans were apoplectic, with one writing: "It's a joke, right? If not then you just killed that show."
"This better be a belated April fools joke," wrote another.
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The first season followed Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor) as she made her debut in Regency London, seeking a husband, while the second will focus on her brother Lord Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey.)
"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," said the letter published Friday.
