“Bridgerton” fans can keep burning for Regé-Jean Page, because he won’t light that fire again anytime soon.
The show’s Duke of Hastings, 34, took to Instagram Wednesday to dispel rumors that he might be making a return to the Netflix hit.
“The boys are back in town,” Page captioned a photo of himself and Season 2 star Jonathan Bailey during Milan Fashion Week. “(No, I’m not going back to the show btw - the papers made that one up.)”
Page went on to say that despite having no intention of reprising his role as Simon Basset in the Shonda Rhimes show, he and Bailey — who plays Simon’s best pal, Anthony Bridgerton — “had the best, and most stylish, catch up I’ve had in a while over some truly excellent Italian coffee and sunshine️.”
Of course, fans were none too thrilled to learn they’re awaiting his character’s return in vain.
“This is so iconic but pls come back,” said one fan in the comments section.
“PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE GO BACK TO BRIDGERTON! We miss you!” pleaded another.
Though Simon — a role which scored Page an Emmy nomination — is mentioned in the series’ second season, which premiered in March, Page’s face is never seen.
He took to Instagram in April 2021 to announce his departure, noting, “It’s been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to be your Duke.”
While Season 2 focused on Anthony’s journey to settling down, the third season will center on the romance between characters Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) and Penelope (Nicola Coughlan).
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