PBS’s Sanditon will have to carry on without Theo James.
On Friday (May 7), the Jane Austen adaptation took to social media to reveal that while Sanditon will return for season 2 and season 3, the series will be carrying on without Theo James in the role of Sidney Parker.
News of James’s exit comes on the heels of a long, but ultimately successful, fan campaign to get the series renewed following its initial cancellation by ITV in 2019. Sanditon was officially saved and picked up for two addition seasons just yesterday (Thursday, May 7).
“Although I relished playing Sidney, for me, I’ve always maintained that his journey concluded as I wanted it to. The broken fairy tale like ending between Charlotte and Sidney is different, unique and so interesting to me and I wish the cast and crew of Sanditon every success with future series,” wrote Theo James in a letter to the fans posted Twitter.
In addition, PBS’s Masterpiece handle added that Sanditon season 2 and 3 will continue on without James’ Sidney and “continue Charlotte’s journey through life and love.”
“While Sidney Parker will not return, rest assured that an abundance of romance and adventure lies ahead for the Sanditon heroine,” they wrote.
#SanditonPBS will return w/ seasons 2 & 3 and continue Charlotte’s journey through life & love. While Sidney Parker will not return, rest assured that an abundance of romance & adventure lies ahead for the Sanditon heroine. We can’t wait for you to see what we have in store… 💕 pic.twitter.com/8ioma0RbwF
— MASTERPIECE | PBS (@masterpiecepbs) May 7, 2021
Based on Jane Austen’s final, unfinished novel, season 2 will find Rose Williams returning to portray Charlotte Heywood. Also returning is creator Andrew Davies, who will executive produce, in addition to writing several episodes. Season 1 vet Justin Young will be tasks with developing seasons 2 and 3.
Currently, there’s no word on when we can expect to see Sanditon season 2 premiere.