With season 3 of the hit Netflix series Bridgerton on the horizon, it seems only fitting to approach the elephant in the room: what will happen with the Duke of Hastings? Played by Regé-Jean Page in season 1, the actor did not return for season 2, and the character's absence wasn't really addressed, though plenty was going on to keep viewers from missing him. Page was reportedly in talks to return to the series but has since said that he is alright with the streamer recasting the role.
In the first season, Simon was the main love interest for Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor). He and the oldest Bridgerton daughter go through a standard enemies-to-lovers arc, ending up married after people catch them kissing at a ball. On the way to his home, it comes out that they're actually into each other and settle into a comfortable marriage. Simon wasn't around in season 2, which wasn't too bad considering there was another love story to focus on and the knowledge that his character never really stayed in one place too long.
Though there is no word on if a recast is being considered by Netflix, there are certainly some talented actors that could fill Page's shoes in the coming seasons. In no particular order, here are five picks for the new Simon.
Alfred Enoch Already Has Bridgerton Fans Talking
Alfred Enoch feels like a great choice to fill the role. Audiences may know him from the popular series How to Get Away with Murder, where he played Wes for four seasons. His major film credits include the Harry Potter franchise, where he was Gryffindor Dean Thomas. He's similar in age to Page, though Enoch can boast about being a bit taller.
Fans have already been fan-casting him as Gareth St. Clair, the baron Hyacinth marries in the book It's In His Kiss, while others have put out the call for him to be the new Simon. It seems like the actor could be the perfect fit for the show and that fans would happily welcome him into the Bridgerton family.
Aldis Hodge Would Be a Captivating Simon
While many may remember him as Voodoo Tatum from Friday Night Lights, Aldis Hodge has done quite a bit since then that warrants consideration. His movie portfolio includes Straight Outta Compton, Hidden Figures, The Invisible Man, and One Night in Miami. Hodge has also joined the DC Extended Universe as Hawkman. He'll make his first appearance as the bird-inspired superhero in Black Adam. The actor has also been on television with TNT's Leverage, City on a Hill, and Black Mirror.
Throughout his career, Hodge has proven he can be just as captivating as anyone playing Simon would need to be, in addition to being around the same age as Page. While Hodge seems to keep himself pretty busy, maybe he could spare some time to play the Duke for a few episodes.
Nick Sagar Would Bring the Charm
With three Netflix movies under his belt, it's a no-brainer that the streaming service should consider Nick Sagar for the role. He is Kevin, best friend to Stacy (Vanessa Hudgens) and husband to Lady Margaret (Vanessa Hudgens) in The Princess Switch trilogy. Audiences may also recognize him from shows like Queen of the South, Shadowhunters, and Run the World. As Kevin, he shows off his charming nature and ability to steal a scene, which are much-needed characteristics for playing Simon, and he's a good fit in terms of age, like the others on this list so far.
Algee Smith Is a Rising Star
While some might consider the actor a bit young for the role, Algee Smith could be a fun choice for a recast. He is known for playing footballer Chris McKay in Euphoria but was also in major films like The Hate U Give and Judas and the Black Messiah. Taking on a role with Netflix could open many doors for the actor as he is still building his career and exposing an entirely different audience to his work.
Smith is incredibly expressive with his face, which would serve him well as the Duke, especially since Simon would probably be more of a background player.
Ncuti Gatwa Is a Busy Actor but Would Be a Perfect Simon
Like Sagar, Ncuti Gatwa has experience working with Netflix. As Eric on Sex Education, he became a recognizable name for several audiences, just like his costar Simone Ashley who went on to star in Bridgerton. Gatwa is also on the younger end of the individuals on this list but could still do well in the role. The one hang-up stopping him could be his upcoming appearance as the Fourteenth Doctor in Doctor Who. Being The Doctor is a huge role for an actor and propels them to a new level of celebrity with certain audiences, so the actor may not have time to be Simon.
These are just five of the many talented actors that could fill the role (we're thinking of you, Winston Duke and John Boyega). With season 3 in production, fans won't have to wait long to see if there is a new face behind Simon when the show returns.