Bridgerton producer Shonda Rhimes has opened up about Regé-Jean Page's decision to leave the Netflix show ahead of season two.
The writer and creator, who is also behind shows such as Grey's Anatomy and Scandal, admitted that she was "really shocked" by how fans took the news, questioning where the Duke would have gone if he had stayed.
MORE: Netflix renews Bridgerton for seasons three and four
In an interview with Vanity Fair, she began: "I was really shocked, because usually that happens when I've killed off somebody that's been around for a while. Like, we didn't kill him, he's still alive!
WATCH: Bridgerton 2's huge announcement
"I don't know that I expected this much of an explosion, given that every book is a different romance. What would be the ever-after of this combo?"
She continued: "I mean, really, what would Regé-Jean do, you know what I mean? We gave them their happily ever after! And now we have this next couple coming. So yeah, I was like, whoa!"
Regé-Jean's announcement was released earlier this month with the actor explaining it had been "both a privilege and a pleasure to be your Duke".
MORE: Bridgerton stars open up about how new characters will fit into season two
MORE: Bridgerton fans thrilled after season two is teased with on-set photo
© Photo: NetflixThe actor announced he would not be returning for season two
Meanwhile, fans of Bridgerton, which recently began production on season two, had reason to celebrate yesterday after it was announced that the Netflix show would be returning for seasons three and four.
MORE: Bridgerton's Phoebe Dynevor confirms new major role alongside Downton Abbey star
A message, shared on the Shondaland TV Twitter page, read: "Esteemed members of the Ton, it seems we have a rather special announcement. Bridgerton shall return for seasons three and four. This author shall have to purchase more ink… Yours Truly, Lady Whistledown."
Plenty of fans reacted to the news underneath the post expressing their joy at the prospect of more Bridgerton content. One person wrote: "This reader is in tears, THANK YOU", while another said: "I'M PRETTY SURE Y'ALL CAN HEAR ME SCREAMING ALL THE WAY FROM LISBON."
Like this story? Sign up to our newsletter to get other stories like this delivered straight to your inbox.
