Shonda Rhimes had sobering words for Bridgerton fans who are holding out hope that Reg-Jean Page will one day return to the Netflix series.

The Emmy-winning television mogul told Variety this week that she doesnt expect Page to reprise his role as Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, in future seasons of Bridgerton.

Rightfully, he said, I signed up to do this one lovely story, this closed-ended storyline. Im good! said Rhimes, who is an executive producer on Bridgerton and Greys Anatomy , among other beloved shows. And I dont blame him for that. I think that he was really smart to leave the perfection as the perfection.

Page nabbed an Emmy nomination for his portrayal of the duke on the first season of Bridgerton, which debuted in December 2020. In April, it was announced that the British and Zimbabwean heartthrob would depart the series as his character was only intended for a single-season arc.

Season 2, which is slated for release next year, will instead focus on Lord Anthony Bridgerton, played by Jonathan Bailey.