How Bridgerton Explains Jonathan Bailey's Absence in Season 4 Part One

And Anthony and Kate aren't the only members of the Bridgerton clan who are missing, as another servant reveals that the youngest son Gregory (Will Tilston) is off at school.

"We’ve certainly needed more boys," he adds. "It’s getting a little girlish around here with Gregory off at Eton."

Indeed, Gregory doesn't appear until episode four—showing off quite the growth spurt with new facial hair and a more refined taste for "a Scotch egg and a stiff cup of tea" over childish jellies.

But there's another change to the family dynamic as well. With Anthony and Kate away in India, Benedict (Luke Thompson) has been thrust into a new role, explaining to his new maid Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha) that he has taken over some of his brother's duties.

"Your new job is where I live," he shares. "Well, where I reside half the time, while I fill in for the viscount."

Fortunately, Anthony is expected to return when part two drops Feb. 26, as Jonathan was indeed pictured in a sneak peek of season four last year.

Indeed, the actor—who clarified last year that he's not quitting Hollywood after sharing he was stepping back from the limelight—promised he had "a couple of weeks etched out" in his schedule to return for filming season four.

"Obviously being the older brother," Jonathan told Good Morning America in 2023, "I'm gonna be there to support the youngsters as we go."