Why did Ruby Stokes leave Bridgerton? Details explored 

Netflix's smash hit historical romance, Bridgerton, first premiered on December 25, 2020, and quickly became a global sensation. Viewers were hooked on the series for its incredible storyline, cast, performances, and lavish Regency-era aesthetics.

It was created by Chris Van Dusen and produced by Shondaland and CVD Productions. This series whisks us back to Regency-era London. The story follows the Bridgerton family as they navigate love, scandal, and society in the upper echelons of society. The siblings (in no order) include Benedict, Eloise, Anthony, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory, and Hyacinth, each of whom has their own storyline. Season 1 focuses on Daphne, Season 2 follows the eldest son, Anthony, and Season 3 follows Colin.

Fans noticed a major shift in Season 3. Francesca Bridgerton, originally played by Ruby Stokes in the first two seasons, was recast. Hannah Tod stepped into the role in Bridgerton Season 3. Ruby Stokes exited the series to pursue new opportunities, taking on the lead role of Lucy Carlyle in Netflix's supernatural drama, Lockwood & Co.

Continue reading to know more.

Why did Ruby Stokes leave Bridgerton?

Ruby Stokes exited Bridgerton after playing Francesca for two seasons, and her departure sparked plenty of fan curiosity. The young star landed an opportunity to play the lead role of Lucy Carlyle in a British supernatural thriller series. The timing coincided with Bridgerton's Season 2 renewal, forcing Stokes to make a choice. She ultimately chose to pursue Lockwood & Co, which meant Francesca's appearances were limited to only three episodes in Season 2.

The decision reshaped Bridgerton's plans. Showrunner Van Dusen told TVLine that the creative team had envisioned a much larger role for Francesca in Season 2, but since she left, they had to chop it down. He said,

“I love Francesca, but we lost her midway through Season 2. After exhausting all other options, she unfortunately had to come out due to reasons beyond our control. "

Here is what Ruby Stokes said about leaving Bridergton. Speaking to Variety, she revealed,

"It wasn’t an easy decision. But it was incredible being part of a cultural moment like ‘Bridgerton."

Ironically, Lockwood & Co. was cancelled after just one season despite good reviews. Fans now view Stokes' move as a bittersweet career shift. The recasting of Francesca with Hannah Dodd in Season 3 gave the character a fresh start and set the stage for her eventual love story.

Beyond Francesca: Ruby Stokes' career and notable projects explored

Ruby Stokes is a popular English actress and voice artist known for her roles in Bridgerton, Lockwood & Co. The Burning Girls, The Jetty, and Una. Stokes was among the Screen International Stars of Tomorrow. She attended the Young Actors Theatre in Islington and was a member of London Youth Circus. But did you know she began her career as a child actor? She played the role of a young Una Spencer in the 2016 drama film Una.

Some of her projects include As Dusk Falls, A Banquet, Where is Anne Frank, Shagbands, White Girl, Rocks, and Nosebleed, to name a few. Her upcoming projects include Madfabulous and Sunny Dancer, and she has also secured a role in an untitled Netflix series, according to IMDb.

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Also read: Bridgerton Season 4 cast and character guide: Every returning star and new appearances confirmed so far

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