Netflix’s Bridgerton is no stranger to stirring passionate fan reactions, but the first look at Season 4 has ignited an unexpected controversy. While many viewers are excited to see what’s next for the ton, others have taken issue with one specific aspect—Simone Ashley’s appearance in the new promo images. Fans seem to be making the same comment repeatedly, and it’s clear that not everyone is pleased with the way Bridgerton is handling her character, Kate Sharma.
What’s Causing the Fan Outrage?
Simone Ashley, who plays Kate Sharma (now Kate Bridgerton), was one of the standout stars of Bridgerton Season 2. Her slow-burn romance with Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey) captivated audiences, making her a fan-favorite. However, when Netflix released the first official look at Season 4, many fans were quick to point out that Kate barely seems to be present—and when she does appear, something feels off.
The overwhelming reaction? Fans think Simone Ashley is being sidelined in favor of newer characters, particularly those in the upcoming romance between Benedict Bridgerton and Sophie Beckett. Some have even argued that her styling and presence in the first look photos don’t do justice to her character’s importance.
One of the most common complaints is about her hairstyling and wardrobe choices, with fans expressing disappointment that Kate doesn’t appear as regal and polished as she did in Season 2. Some have even accused the show of failing to maintain consistency with her character’s elegant and commanding presence.
Why Fans Are Frustrated with Simone Ashley’s Reduced Role
While Bridgerton follows a book-to-screen format that shifts focus each season, fans were hoping to see more of Kate and Anthony in Season 4, given how beloved they are as a couple. After Season 3 already appeared to downplay their presence, many were expecting Season 4 to provide a better balance between past and present leads.
Instead, the first look at the new season has left them feeling like Kate is fading into the background. Some fans took to social media to express their frustration, commenting:
- “Why does Simone Ashley look so different? This doesn’t feel like Kate Sharma at all.”
- “I love Benedict, but Kate deserves better. She was the diamond of Season 2, and now she’s barely in the promo.”
- “Netflix needs to respect Kate and Anthony’s legacy instead of just pushing them aside for the next Bridgerton sibling.”
This sentiment echoes what happened with Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor), who had a reduced presence after her season concluded. However, fans argue that Kate’s situation feels different because her love story was left somewhat unresolved, with Bridgerton failing to fully explore her marriage to Anthony.
Is Netflix Mishandling Its Former Leads?
Part of the frustration stems from a pattern that Bridgerton seems to be following—after giving a couple their season, the show quickly sidelines them. This happened with Daphne and Simon, and now it seems to be happening with Kate and Anthony. However, the disappointment is greater this time around because fans feel like Kate never got the depth and development she deserved in Season 2, particularly in comparison to some of the other female leads.
With Simone Ashley’s reduced presence in the first look, many are wondering if Bridgerton is once again failing to honor its past love stories. While the show must move forward with Benedict’s romance, the backlash suggests that fans are still craving a richer exploration of Kate and Anthony’s life together.
What This Means for Season 4
While first looks aren’t always representative of the full season, the reaction to Simone Ashley’s appearance in Bridgerton Season 4 suggests that fans want more from her character. If Netflix hopes to avoid further backlash, the show may need to ensure that Kate and Anthony’s presence is meaningful rather than just a brief cameo.
At this point, one thing is clear: fans aren’t ready to say goodbye to Kate Sharma just yet. Now, it’s up to Bridgerton to prove that she still has a place in the story.
