3 Actors That Could Have Been Perfect for Bridgerton's Duke of Hastings
They would all look charming in the role.
The Netflix romance drama Bridgerton premiered in 2020 and became an instant success. In fact, the series was renewed for a third and fourth season a whole year before its second installment dropped in 2022. Earlier this year, the franchise was expanded with a spin-off, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, which served as a nice respite for fans who are still waiting for the third chapter of the main series to finally premiere.
Based on Julia Quinn's novels of the same name, each season of Bridgerton follows a member of the titular family as they make forays into high society and try to find love in the London ton. Season 1 revolved around Daphne Bridgerton and her steaming romance with the Duke of Hastings, Simon Basset. Portrayed by Regé-Jean Page, the character stole the hearts of many fans when the season aired.
And what if we told you three other actors were considered for Page's role? Here they are, and we dare say they were all worthy contenders to play the Duke of Hastings.
1. Jacob Anderson
Best remembered for his role as Grey Worm in Game of Thrones, Jacob Anderson had all the charm and acting skill to shine as Briderton's Duke of Hastings. Boasting roles in such popular shows as Doctor Who and Interview with the Vampire, perhaps Anderson was too big of a star at the time when Bridgerton started filming.
2. Lucien Laviscount
Another highly experienced and undeniably charming British actor, Lucien Laviscount is best known for his role in Netflix's Emily in Paris. The actor has appeared in many projects during his two-decade-long career, including the hit show Supernatural.
Yes, Page was fantastic in the role, but imagine if Simon Basset had Lucien's ravishing smile — wouldn't he look even more irresistible?
3. Elliot Knight
Talented and charismatic, Elliot Knight has an impressive portfolio that includes shows like Law & Order, How to Get Away with Murder, and Once Upon a Time. With his beautiful bow-curved lips, the British actor is arguably an even bigger heartthrob than Regé-Jean Page, and there's no doubt he would have handled the role of Simon perfectly.
Still, the audience enjoyed Page's performance as the Duke of Hastings, and it's a shame we won't see the actor again in future seasons of Bridgerton. Perhaps Shonda Rhimes could resurrect the character by inviting one of the three gorgeous men to star in her show? Fans would certainly love that.