Kim Kardashian’s Shocking Reaction to Regé-Jean Page’s Bridgerton Exit: An Unforgettable Farewell
The highly anticipated announcement regarding the future of Netflix’s smash-hit historical drama, Bridgerton, sent shockwaves through its global fanbase. Among the millions of viewers left reeling by the news, reality television icon and self-proclaimed Bridgerton enthusiast, Kim Kardashian, openly expressed her profound dismay. The revelation that Regé-Jean Page, the dashing actor who so brilliantly portrayed Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, would not be returning for the second season, sparked an immediate and widespread outpouring of grief and disbelief across social media.
Kardashian, known for her candid social media commentary, encapsulated the collective sentiment of fans worldwide. Taking to her Instagram stories, the 40-year-old star of Keeping Up with the Kardashians reposted the formal announcement from Bridgerton‘s official Instagram account on April 2nd. Her reaction was unequivocal and relatable: “I’m NOT ok!!!!!” she declared, followed by a flurry of questions echoing in every fan’s mind: “What is happening!!??? How can this be?” This raw, immediate response from such a prominent celebrity only amplified the emotional impact of Page’s departure, highlighting just how deeply his character, and his performance, resonated with viewers.
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Regé-Jean Page’s Heartfelt Farewell to His “Bridgerton” Family
The sentiment of confusion and sadness was not unilateral; Regé-Jean Page himself offered a poignant farewell to the legions of fans, including Kim Kardashian, who had fallen head over heels for his portrayal of the charismatic Duke. In his own Instagram post, Page reflected on his time with the critically acclaimed series, expressing profound gratitude and affection. “The ride of a lifetime,” he penned, “It’s been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to be your Duke. Joining this family – not just on screen, but off screen too. Our incredibly creative and generous cast, crew, outstanding fans – it’s all been beyond anything I could have imagined. The love is real and will just keep growing.”
His words provided a bittersweet comfort, acknowledging the deep connection he forged with the character and the audience. Page’s portrayal of Simon Basset was pivotal to Bridgerton‘s initial success. His undeniable charm, intense gaze, and the sizzling chemistry with Phoebe Dynevor, who plays Daphne Bridgerton, captivated viewers and propelled the show to unprecedented popularity. The Duke of Hastings quickly became a cultural phenomenon, a romantic lead against whom all others would be measured, making his exit all the more impactful.
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Lady Whistledown Breaks the News: A Shift in Focus
The official news of Page’s departure was delivered in true Bridgerton fashion: through a letter penned by the show’s elusive gossip columnist, “Lady Whistledown.” This distinctive narrative device for Bridgerton is infamous for circulating the juiciest tidbits about high society, and this particular bulletin was no exception. The letter, both formal and tantalizing, announced the shift in the series’ focus:
“While all eyes turn to Lord Anthony Bridgerton’s quest to find a Viscountess, we bid adieu to Regé-Jean Page, who so triumphantly played the Duke of Hastings. We’ll miss Simon’s presence onscreen, but he will always be a part of the Bridgerton family. 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.”
This statement officially confirmed that while Simon Basset would no longer be a central figure, his spirit would linger, and his wife Daphne would continue to play a role in the Bridgerton family’s ongoing saga. The announcement also strategically redirected attention to the upcoming narrative arc of Lord Anthony Bridgerton, setting the stage for Season 2 to follow the second book in Julia Quinn’s series, “The Viscount Who Loved Me.” This storytelling structure, where each book focuses on a different Bridgerton sibling’s search for love, always meant that certain characters might step back from the spotlight. However, few anticipated the complete absence of a character as beloved as the Duke of Hastings.
The Phenomenal Success of Bridgerton and Kim Kardashian’s Deep Fandom
Kim Kardashian’s palpable shock was entirely understandable, considering the meteoric rise of Bridgerton to become a global sensation. Premiering on Christmas Day in 2020, the Netflix series, produced by Shonda Rhimes’ Shondaland, rapidly broke viewership records for the streaming giant. Its blend of Regency-era romance, scandalous gossip, vibrant costumes, diverse casting, and modern musical twists captivated audiences worldwide, offering a much-needed escape during challenging times.
The SKIMS mogul was not just a casual viewer; her enthusiasm for the series ran deep. Just four days before the devastating news of Regé-Jean Page’s exit, Kim had actively shared her love for the show. She posted a montage of some of the most memorable and steamy scenes featuring the 31-year-old British actor and his on-screen wife, Phoebe Dynevor (Daphne). Her specific shout-out to the now-iconic ‘rain sex scene’ further solidified her status as a devoted fan, making her subsequent reaction to the casting news all the more authentic and relatable to the millions who shared her passion for the fictional couple.
@KimKardashian carpetera maxima de Daphne y Simon 🤭😏 #Bridgerton #bridgertonnetflix pic.twitter.com/AUGjNXkscr
— Leyendo… 🐝 (@carmentina19) March 29, 2021
The Impact of the Duke’s Absence on Future Seasons
Regé-Jean Page’s departure undeniably leaves a significant void in the Bridgerton ensemble. While the show is based on a series of novels where each book highlights a different Bridgerton sibling, the intense focus and development given to Simon and Daphne’s love story in Season 1 made them feel indispensable. The decision for Page not to return was reportedly mutual, with the actor having signed a one-season contract to fulfill his character’s arc as detailed in the first book, “The Duke and I.” His rising star power and pursuit of other exciting film roles likely also played a part in his decision to move on.
For many, the allure of the Duke of Hastings was synonymous with the show itself. His journey from a brooding, commitment-phobic bachelor to a loving husband and father formed the emotional core of the debut season. His absence means that future seasons, while promising new romantic narratives for other Bridgerton siblings, will proceed without one of its most captivating figures. Fans will undoubtedly feel the loss of his dynamic presence and the magnetic pull he brought to the screen. The narrative will now heavily rely on other characters to carry the weight of the romance and intrigue, particularly Lord Anthony Bridgerton, as he steps into the spotlight as the central romantic lead for Season 2.
Looking Ahead: Bridgerton’s Enduring Appeal and What’s Next
Despite the bittersweet farewell to Regé-Jean Page’s Duke of Hastings, Bridgerton‘s future remains bright and full of potential. The show is known for its ensemble cast, and while Simon’s story concluded with a satisfying resolution, the sprawling Bridgerton family offers a rich tapestry of characters whose romantic journeys are yet to unfold. Season 2, as indicated by Lady Whistledown, will delve into Anthony’s quest for a Viscountess, promising new drama, fresh faces, and the signature opulent setting that fans have come to adore.
The strength of the original source material by Julia Quinn, coupled with Shondaland’s masterful adaptation, suggests that the series has enough depth and charm to continue captivating audiences. While Regé-Jean Page may no longer be making viewers’ hearts race on the show, the legacy of the Duke of Hastings, his passionate romance with Daphne, and the undeniable cultural impact of Bridgerton Season 1 will forever be etched in the annals of television history. The show continues to be a vibrant exploration of love, family, and societal expectations in Regency London, and fans, though saddened by this particular departure, remain eager for the unfolding tales. You can still learn more about the upcoming season, though, here.