Rege-Jean Page addresses James Bond rumours after Bridgerton exit

The 31-year-old, who rose to fame as Bridgerton's Duke of Hastings, downplayed the Bond buzz, telling the The Mirror: "Ah, the 'B' word. I think that if you are British and you do anything of note, that other people take notice of, then people will start talking about that.

"I think that's fairly normal and I'm flattered to be in the category of Brits that people have noticed."

He added that he had "nothing more – or less" to say on the reports. "I think the concept of having plans in this moment in history is mildly hilarious. So I've given up on making them."

The For the People star addressed Bond rumours back in January, telling Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show that, while he was "pleased" the public were suggesting him for the role, he didn't "think it's much more than [a] merit badge".

Last week, Netflix announced Regé-Jean Page would not be returning to Bridgerton for season two, writing that it will "miss Simon's presence onscreen, but he will always be a part of the Bridgerton family".

Meanwhile, his co-star Phoebe Dynevor, who plays the Duke's wife Daphne Bridgerton, will be reprising her role in the next series, with Netflix confirming: "Daphne will remain a devoted wife and sister, helping her brother navigate the upcoming social season."

Bridgerton is available to stream on Netflix. Looking for something else to watch? Check out our guide to the best series on Netflix and best movies on Netflix, or visit our TV Guide.