Regé-Jean Page has broken the hearts of his adoring fans after confirming that his days as the Duke of Hastings on Bridgerton are over.

Taking to Instagram, the 31-year-old heartthrob shared with his 5.4 million fans that it had been an "absolute pleasure" to play the troubled romantic lead.

Page wrote alongside a snap of him in character as Simon Basset: "The ride of a life time. It’s been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to be your Duke. Joining this family - not just on screen, but off screen too."

[[imagecaption|| Credit: Regé-Jean Page / Instagram]]

He concluded: "Our incredibly creative and generous cast, crew, outstanding fans - it’s all been beyond anything I could have imagined. The love is real and will just keep growing."

The British actor's post, which was shared less than 24 hours ago at the time of writing, has managed to rack up an impressive 1.7 million likes.

It came hours after it was announced on Bridgerton's official social media accounts that Page would not be returning for the show's highly anticipated second season.

The post consisted of a letter "written" by the show's narrator Lady Whistledown.

[[imagecaption|| Credit: Bridgerton / Instagram]]

It read:

"While all eyes turn to Lord Anthony Bridgerton's quest to find a Viscountess, we bid adieu to Regé-Jean Page, who so triumphantly played the Duke of Hastings," it read. "We'll miss Simon's presence onscreen, but he will always be a part of the Bridgerton family."

The letter also made sure to highlight that Phoebe Dynevor, who plays the Duke's love interest and eventual wife Daphne Bridgerton, will return: "Daphne will remain a devoted wife and sister, helping her brother navigate the upcoming social season and what it has to offer — more intrigue and romance than my readers may be able to bear."

The show's producer, Shonda Rhimes, 51, shared a post of her own, writing: "Remember: the Duke is never gone. He's just waiting to be binge watched all over again. #ShondalandMenOnNetflixAreForever."

Netflix renewed Bridgerton for a second season in January. The second season will follow Lord Anthony Bridgerton, (Jonathan Bailey) in his search for a wife. Simone Ashley will play his love interest, Kate Sharma.

Featured image credit: PictureLux / The Hollywood Archive / Alamy Stock Photo

Regé-Jean Page speaks out as it's confirmed he won't return for 'Bridgerton' season 2