Bridgerton fans call out Simone Ashley’s absence from teaser, question show’s treatment of Kate Sharma

Simone Ashley’s absence from the Bridgerton teaser sparks fan outrage, reigniting concerns about the show’s treatment.

The latest Bridgerton teaser trailer has reignited fan frustration over the show's alleged sidelining of Simone Ashley and her character, Kate Sharma. Ashley, who starred as the female lead in Bridgerton Season 2 alongside Jonathan Bailey’s Viscount Anthony Bridgerton, was noticeably absent from the teaser despite being confirmed to return for the upcoming season, according to BuzzFeed.

Many viewers took to social media to question why Ashley was missing, especially since other lead characters were featured. A viral X (formerly Twitter) thread with over 1.5 million views detailed how Ashley and her character received noticeably less promotional focus than previous female leads. Unlike Season 1’s stars Phoebe Dynevor and Regé-Jean Page or Season 3’s Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton, Ashley and Bailey did not receive joint interviews, promotional photoshoots, or magazine covers celebrating their on-screen romance.

Fans also pointed out issues with how Kate’s character has been framed in promotional content. Many noted that she has been described in unflattering terms by some involved in the show’s production and remains the only female lead whose last name has not changed after marriage. Critics argue this undermines her role as Viscountess Bridgerton, a title typically emphasized in Bridgerton’s storytelling.

Some fans speculate that Ashley’s busy schedule, including upcoming roles in This Tempting Madness and Picture This, may have influenced her absence from Bridgerton’s promotions. However, Ashley has repeatedly expressed her enthusiasm for the show and her character’s journey.

Despite ongoing concerns, Ashley has reassured fans that she is committed to Bridgerton, stating, “Kate and Anthony are here to stay.”