And though we thought the Internet’s response to Regé-Jean’s departure from Bridgerton was valid, Shonda revealed that she did not expect that kind of response. “I don’t think I expected everybody to have such a reaction to it,” she admitted. “My assumption of what people knew of romance novels was… I overestimated a great deal.”
Nonetheless, she understands where the fans are coming from, adding, “People’s attachment to couples is real—I mean, I know that better than anybody,” Rhimes explained. “And I think that means success. But I do understand their despair.”
Though we shouldn’t expect to see a return from Regé-Jean, Shonda assured fans that Bridgerton is nowhere near over, with Netflix renewing the show until season four, and much more to come. “There are eight Bridgerton siblings, and as far as I’m concerned, there are eight Bridgerton seasons. And maybe more.”
