‘I’m just excited to watch as a viewer’: Phoebe Dynevor hints at Daphne’s absence in Netflix’s Bridgerton

Phoebe Dynevor has finally addressed the rumours surrounding her return to season three of the Netflix show, Bridgerton.

The actress, 27, from Manchester, played Daphne Bridgerton in the first two seasons of the Regency romance, where she appears as one of the eight Bridgerton siblings.

Speaking with Screen Rant on the red carpet at the Sundance Film Festival, The Bank of Dave actress confirmed that she will be absent from season three.

When asked if there are any “exciting dynamics” coming up for Daphne in season three, Phoebe said: “Sadly not in season three. Potentially in the future. But season three, I’m just excited to watch as a viewer.”

Although Daphne isn’t making an appearance, it is likely that her sister Eloise will have a larger role as her friendship with Penelope was tarnished in the season two finale.

Bridgeton is based on the book series by Julia Quinn and has become one of the most popular historical dramas on Netflix over the last two years.

The first season had an intense romance between Duke of Hastings, Simon Basset (Regé-Jean Page) and Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor). They also led the way for the subsequent seasons, which follow each Bridgerton sibling’s love story.

Season two, which was released in March 2022, followed the forbidden love of Daphne’s older Brother, Viscount Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey) and Kate Sharma (Simone Ashley).

The last season, saw the return of Daphne, who managed to realise her brother’s true feelings for Kate whilst he was intending to propose to her younger sister, Edwina. However, the season didn’t see the return of Daphne’s husband, the Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page).

The highly-anticipated third season, is said to be focusing on Colin Bridgerton’s romance with Penelope Featherington, who are played by Luke Newton and Nicola Coughlan.

While most Bridgerton cast members will be returning, including Simone Ashley as Kate Bridgerton, it appears that Daphne won’t be making an appearance.

In May 2022, Bridgerton showrunner Jess Brownell was asked about Daphne’s future. "We want to keep seeing all of our Bridgerton siblings," the producer told Variety.

She continued: "We feel like those moments when the whole family is together is what really makes the show and makes all of us, I think, want to be a Bridgerton.”

Adding: “So yes, you will definitely be seeing Daphne, Anthony and Kate — how much, I don’t want to say quite yet, but you have to tune in."

Earlier this month, the cast were spotted in Bath filming the new episodes, which provides the backdrop for the Featherington’s family home.

Netflix has not yet announced the official release date for season three of Bridgerton.