Francesca's storyline was a huge part of Bridgerton season four, and potentially sets the scene for her becoming the lead in Bridgerton season five (it's her or Eloise - we'll see!). But you might recall a completely different actress playing the role back in seasons one and two.
Ruby Stokes spent two years as Francesca, but left the show ahead of the season three and was replaced by Hannah Dodd.
So, why exactly did Ruby Stokes leave the show?
Here's everything you need to know.
Why did they recast Francesca in Bridgerton? Why Ruby Stokes left
If you're wondering why, there was no drama at all, well it's because Ruby simply had another opportunity come her way, which she felt like she couldn't pass up.
As she told Variety, "It wasn’t an easy decision. But it was incredible being part of a cultural moment like Bridgerton. Every lesson I learned on Bridgerton was so valuable, and it propelled me, and allowed me to go on and take on a lead role on another show."
Ruby ended up joining the cast of Lockwood & Co, and told What To Watch that "Something about Lucy spoke to me. It was a chance to explore a very different character and I’ve learned a great deal playing a young adult at the helm of a show. I just felt it was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down!"
At the time, Dodd felt the weight of stepping into the already well-established Bridgerton family.
"Their chemistry was incredible and I could see from interviews that they seemed to absolutely love each other," she told LA Times. "I was like, 'Oh my God, how do I join that and make sure that I have that chemistry?' But the cast are so lovely and made me feel at home straight away."
While the role changed hands, Francesca's story is still very much unfolding.
Bridgerton season 4 is available to stream on Netfix.
