The popular series Miss Scarlet and the Duke is undergoing a significant change as it prepares for its sixth season premiere tonight on PBS Masterpiece. Actor Stuart Martin, who has played the character William “The Duke” Wellington for four seasons, is exiting the show, leaving fans surprised and disappointed.
In a heartfelt statement, Martin expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to portray the Duke. He stated, “It has been such an incredible joy to bring Duke to life through [series creator] Rachael New’s beautiful, brilliant writing, and to get to play him for the past four years.” Martin emphasized that he felt it was time for his character to step aside, allowing Miss Scarlet, played by Kate Phillips, to explore new narratives and challenges as the series evolves.
Martin’s departure marks a notable shift for the series, which has garnered a dedicated fanbase since its inception. As he moves on, he remains enthusiastic about the show’s future, saying, “I will miss working with my amazing partner in crime Kate and the rest of our brilliant family and team, but I’m excited to continue following Eliza and her escapades as a huge fan and newly enrolled Scarleteer!”
Phillips also shared her sentiments regarding Martin’s exit. She remarked, “I will miss working with my pal Stu every day, and know Eliza will miss her Duke, but I think the best is yet to come for her. I can’t wait for fans to see what we have in store for Season 5.” The dynamic between the two characters has been a cornerstone of the series, making Martin’s departure all the more poignant for viewers.
As the show heads into its sixth season, fans will be eager to see how the storyline unfolds without the Duke. The series, which has been well-received for its engaging plots and strong character development, continues to attract viewers, promising fresh adventures for its lead character, Eliza Scarlet.
With the premiere set for tonight, the anticipation surrounding Miss Scarlet remains high, despite the changes in the cast. As the series evolves, audiences are left to wonder how the departure of one of its lead characters will impact the overall narrative and character dynamics.
