Shocking Revelation: Bridgerton Season 3 Takes Unexpected Turn, Leaving Fans Astonished!
Bridgerton Season 3 proves the show's ability to thrive without Regé-Jean Page's Simon The future holds exciting possibilities as the series expands beyond his character, showcasing the brilliance of Shonda Rhimes' vision
Warning: This post includes spoilers for season 2 of Bridgerton.
Season 3 of Bridgerton will continue the storylines introduced in season 2, and it has been revealed that actor Regé-Jean Page, who plays Simon, will not be returning. Although the release date for season 3 has not been announced yet, the popular Netflix series has already been renewed for a fourth season. Additionally, there will be a spinoff series focused on Queen Charlotte's past and her romance with King George. While most of the cast will be returning for season 2 of Bridgerton, it was pre-announced that Page will not be reprising his role as the Duke of Hastings.
Why Bridgerton Season 2 Worked Despite Simon's Absence
Regé-Jean Page's departure as Simon Basset in Bridgerton season 2 initially disappointed fans. His impressive performance in season 1 made it difficult to envision the Netflix series continuing without him. The absence of Page raised questions about the fate of Phoebe Dynevor's Daphne Bridgerton, whose story was intricately connected to Simon's. Despite concerns, Bridgerton season 2 moved forward without Page and will do so in future seasons as well. The show introduced new characters and saw Dynevor return, albeit in a smaller capacity. However, what lies ahead for Bridgerton season 3 and beyond is still uncertain.
Concerns were raised about the decrease in quality for Bridgerton season 2 and even season 3 now that Regé-Jean Page has left the series. However, the focus on Anthony Bridgerton and his complicated relationship with Kate Sharma breathed new life into the show, despite Simon's absence. Jonathan Bailey and Simone Ashley delivered impeccable chemistry, longing, and intensity that captivated viewers. It was easy to forget that Simon was once a central character, except for the moments when Daphne made appearances. The Duke of Hastings' departure didn't deter from the overall experience, as a new passionate romance took center stage. This new love story approached matters differently, offering its own share of emotional and interpersonal conflicts that kept audiences engaged.
Bridgerton Season 3 Proves The Show Is Much Bigger Than Simon
: The presence of Kate and Anthony as the leads in season 2 proved to be exactly what Bridgerton needed. While the absence of Regé-Jean Page could have jeopardized the series, their compelling storyline effectively averted any potential setback. Their captivating narrative captured the audience's undivided attention, leading to even higher viewership compared to the previous season. Additionally, other characters' stories played a crucial role in expanding the world of Bridgerton, ensuring that the series remained strong despite Page's departure.
Bridgerton season 2 concluded with tantalizing hints at more captivating narratives for the remaining characters. In season 3, the spotlight will shift away from Simon and Daphne's love story to delve into the intricate romance between Penelope and Colin, the evolving dynamics of Anthony and Kate's post-marriage relationship, Benedict's future endeavors, and the complex friendship between Eloise and Penelope. This upcoming season will serve as a powerful reminder of the show's ensemble cast, broadening the horizons of Bridgerton's world beyond the Regé-Jean Page character. By not fixating solely on his absence, viewers will have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the vast and enthralling potential that the series has to offer.
Future Bridgerton Seasons Don't Need Simon To Return
Moving forward with each season focusing on a different Bridgerton sibling's romantic tale allows certain characters, no matter their previous significance, to take a backseat. Simon, despite his connection to Daphne and Anthony, can now be absent from the story without undermining the narrative. In fact, as Bridgerton shifts its focus to the younger generation, Simon's absence will become even less noticeable. The show's writing team has already demonstrated their ability to navigate challenges caused by actors' unavailability, as seen with Francesca Bridgerton's sudden disappearance in season 2. With Simon no longer in the spotlight, Bridgerton can proceed smoothly in season 3 and beyond.
Bridgerton Season 4 Could Recast Simon
Should Bridgerton decide to bring back Simon for a future storyline, it is not entirely absurd to suggest that they could recast Regé-Jean Page's role. In the world of television, recasting happens often enough that it is no longer a surprising occurrence. Currently, it may not be necessary and might take some getting used to, but if the writers of Bridgerton choose to include Simon in season 4, whether it be in a storyline involving Daphne and Anthony or simply in family scenes, it would be worth considering a recast. While a recast for Regé-Jean Page in Bridgerton season 3 might initially catch viewers off guard, it would ensure that the new actor portraying the character would be available for future seasons.
A precedent has already been set in Bridgerton with the recasting of Francesca Bridgerton. Ruby Stokes played the sixth Bridgerton sibling in seasons 1 and 2 but had to be recast due to scheduling conflicts. In Bridgerton season 3, Francesca will now be portrayed by Hannah Dodd. Admittedly, Francesca was a relatively minor character in the first two seasons, with most fans barely taking notice of her absence. Therefore, her recasting in season 3 will not generate the same level of discussion among fans as Simon's would. Nonetheless, it remains a viable option, especially considering Regé-Jean Page's decision to pursue other projects such as The Gray Man and Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, which has led him to depart from the romantic series.
Shonda Rhimes Thinks Page Leaving Was Perfect
Content: Despite hopes for Regé-Jean Page's return, executive producer Shonda Rhimes believed that Simon's departure was fitting and completed his character's journey. In an interview with Variety, Rhimes commended the romance genre for allowing happy endings and praised Simon's transformation from antagonist to finding himself through Daphne. Although viewers were upset by Page's decision, Rhimes supported his choice to complete his originally planned single-season arc. In a separate interview, Rhimes acknowledged Page's desire to leave on a high note and expressed understanding for his decision. While Simon will be missed, Bridgerton season 3 will thrive without him.
