“Why We’re Still Swooning Over Simon Basset—and Why Regé-Jean Page Had Us Hooked”
Let’s talk about Bridgerton’s Simon Basset—the Duke of Hastings, heartbreaker, and, let’s face it, the man who redefined how we think about Regency-era romance. Played by Regé-Jean Page, Simon didn’t just walk onto our screens; he sauntered, smirked, and gave us all a collective case of the swoons. Even if you’ve only dipped a toe into the Bridgerton fandom, you know Simon: the brooding duke with a tortured past, an impossibly high collar, and a devastating stare that made hearts across the globe skip a beat.
Simon’s character isn’t just popular because he’s attractive, though, let’s be real, that does help. There’s something more to him—a mystery, a depth, and that ever-so-compelling element of the unattainable. He’s the kind of character who makes you want to lean in, to decode what makes him tick. And while the Bridgerton series gave us a few tantalizing glimpses into Simon’s backstory (daddy issues, anyone?), it’s Regé-Jean Page’s performance that gave Simon that magnetic pull.
Page didn’t just play Simon; he was Simon. His presence on-screen was nothing short of enchanting, an alchemy of charisma and vulnerability that had us all transfixed. The way he could deliver lines with a smirk, all while radiating a quiet sadness—that’s a rare talent. Watching Simon fall in love with Daphne felt like watching a grand romance unfold, one that left us rooting for them despite every obstacle (self-imposed vows of solitude included).
But here’s where it gets interesting: as quickly as Regé-Jean Page entered our lives, he exited the Bridgerton stage. Yes, cue collective heartbreak. When it was announced that Page would not be returning for Season 2, the fandom went into a bit of a frenzy. People couldn’t understand it: How could the Duke, the character who launched Bridgerton to Netflix stardom, not be back? Theories swirled, petitions circulated, and fans mourned the absence of the man who seemed to embody Bridgerton’s allure.
So why did Regé-Jean Page bow out? Turns out, Page was ready to move on. He’d signed a one-season contract, after all, and had always viewed his portrayal of Simon as a “complete arc.” He gave us a character with a beginning, a middle, and an end—and for Page, that was enough. For him, leaving wasn’t about quitting; it was about artistic integrity. He knew his portrayal had made its impact, and he wanted to leave on a high note.
Page’s decision to step away from Bridgerton speaks volumes about his approach to his craft. For a rising star like him, staying on might’ve been the more lucrative or fame-securing choice. But Page knew his worth and believed his story as Simon was complete. And, honestly, that only makes us respect him more.
But here’s the thing: Simon’s departure doesn’t mean he’s gone from our hearts. In fact, there’s something oddly perfect about him remaining a little elusive. In the age of binge-watching and endless sequels, having Simon’s story end while we’re still invested keeps that sense of magic alive. We don’t have to watch Simon slowly fade into the background or transform into someone else as the seasons go on. Instead, we can hold onto him in all his smoldering glory—forever, as he was.
And for those who can’t quite move on from Simon, fear not! Page’s career is only heating up. Fans have speculated he might be the next James Bond (I mean, can you imagine?). He’s got the charm, the presence, and a well-tailored suit that screams 007. But whether or not Page steps into the shoes of Britain’s most famous spy, we’ll be following him wherever he goes, drawn to that effortless charisma and depth he brings to every role.
So, why are we still talking about Simon Basset, even though he left Bridgerton? Maybe because he represents that kind of love story we can’t help but yearn for—a romance with a hint of mystery, a touch of tragedy, and a whole lot of passion. Or maybe it’s because, in a world full of characters who stick around until they lose their charm, Simon left at his peak, preserving his place as the ultimate romantic fantasy.
Whatever the reason, one thing is clear: Simon Basset and Regé-Jean Page have left an indelible mark on our hearts.
