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Bridgerton<\/em><\/a> quickly became a fan favorite after debuting on Netflix in 2020, but not all of the show\u2019s cast members chose to stick around.<\/a><\/p>\n The historical drama, which is based on the book series<\/a> written by Julia Quinn<\/strong>, follows the members of the wealthy Bridgerton family as they search for love in 19th century London. Season 1 focused on Daphne Bridgerton\u2019s (Phoebe Dynevor<\/strong><\/a>) unexpected connection with Simon Basset (Reg\u00e9-Jean Page<\/strong><\/a>).<\/p>\n After the show premiered, viewers fell in love with Page and his character, which made his departure that much more shocking. Netflix announced in April 2021 that Page would not be reprising his role as the Duke of Hastings despite plans for Daphne to appear<\/a> in future seasons.<\/p>\n That same month, Page noted that Simon was always pitched to him as a condensed role, telling Variety<\/em>, \u201cIt\u2019s a one-season arc. It\u2019s going to have a beginning, middle, end \u2014 give us a year. [I thought] \u2018That\u2019s interesting,\u2019 because then it felt like a limited series. I get to come in, I get to contribute my bit, and then the Bridgerton family rolls on.\u201d<\/p>\n