Photo: LIAM DANIEL / NETFLIX
As the mourning period for Britain’s most fictional fictional member, the Hot Duke, continues until its second week, Bridgerton producer Shonda Rhimes has sympathy with our horny loss. In a new interview with Vanity Fair, Rhimes confirmed that Regé-Jean Page has always had a one-season deal with the series, and he has indeed refused to return for a few season-two comos, which were allegedly offered with a paycheck. But what really surprised her was the reaction from the fans. “I was really shocked because it usually happens when I kill someone who’s been around for a while. Like, we did not kill him, he’s still alive! ”She explained about the pouring amount of sadness that came through fans. ‘He’s a powerful, amazing actor and that means we did our job. Our job is every season to find the right people and put together this amazing, world-changing romance. I do not know that I expected so much explosion as each book is a different romance. What would the combination of always be? I really mean: What would Regé-Jean do, you know what I mean? We have happily always given them! And now we have this next couple coming. And so yes, I was like, no! ”
Rhimes, who joked that she always has the talent to find ‘guys’ who are ‘destructively attractive’ to play in her shows, remains optimistic about the future Bridgerton seasons have many other hot men that viewers can covet. “There are a lot of fantastically interesting conversations going on,” she continues, “mainly because I think people are struggling to let go.” In remembrance, Page revealed earlier this month that he will not return to the Bridgerton universe for a second season, citing that he was attracted to the role because of the one-and-done nature. ‘I can come in, make my contribution and then the Bridgerton family continues to roll, ”he explained at the time. “There is also value in completing these arches and holding the landing.” The next season will reflect the book series and instead focus on Anthony’s life.