This Phoebe Dynevor 'Bridgerton' news is *not* what we were expecting

Ladies and gentlemen of the ton, there's some Phoebe Dynevor Bridgerton news that might even shock Lady Whistledown. 

As you know, the forthcoming Bridgerton season 3 will focus on the budding romance between Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) and Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton). However, there may be a noticeable absence during the third installment. Brace yourselves, honorable Mayfair visitors. 

What is the Phoebe Dynevor 'Bridgerton' news?

Unfortunately, it looks like Phoebe Dynevor might not reprise her role as Daphne Bridgerton in season 3. While yes, we know that the novels and corresponding seasons focus on different Bridgerton siblings, we were not expecting to part ways with the leading lady who brought the story to life on screen.

While at Sundance promoting Fair Play, Dynevor spoke to ScreenRant about the film and what to expect from the Netflix hit. When asked if Daphne will have any "exciting dynamics" ahead, Dynevor replied with some fairly disappointing news. 

"Sadly not in season 3, potentially in the future," the actor revealed to the outlet. "But season 3, I'm just excited to watch as a viewer."

This is definitely not the first time viewers of the Regency romance had to part ways with someone they held near and dear to their hearts. Regé-Jean Page left Bridgerton after its phenomenal debut season, much to fans' disappointment. 

The show's creator Shonda Rhimes responded to Page's exit with utter shock—especially considering the Duke of Hastings wasn't killed off! 

"I don't know that I expected this much of an explosion, given that every book is a different romance. What would be the ever-after of this combo? I mean, really: what would Regé-Jean do, you know what I mean? We gave them their happily ever after. And now we have this next couple coming. And so yeah, I was like, whoa," Rhimes told Vanity Fair. 

Let's hope this brief break from Daphne is simply that. Bridgerton season 3 is set to hit our screens later this year, and don't forget about the Bridgerton spinoff, Queen Charlotte!