Hollywood’s fast lane is heating up with the upcoming Formula 1-inspired blockbuster ‘F1’, starring Brad Pitt and directed by Joseph Kosinski. But one surprising twist has caught fans off guard—Bridgerton star Simone Ashley’s role in the film has been drastically reduced to a non-speaking cameo.

Kosinski, the acclaimed director behind Top Gun: Maverick and TRON: Legacy, recently addressed the decision, clarifying that the cut was strictly a creative choice. He emphasized that Ashley’s talent was never in question, praising her professionalism and commitment on set.

Originally cast in a more significant capacity, Ashley was expected to bring depth to one of the film’s supporting characters. However, as the story evolved during production, Kosinski explained that the focus needed to remain tightly on the central characters—Brad Pitt, Matthias Schweighöfer, and the core race-day drama that forms the film’s emotional and visual backbone.

Simone Ashley, who rose to stardom as Kate Sharma in Netflix’s Bridgerton, has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most promising young talents. While her diminished presence in F1 is a letdown for fans, it underscores how dynamic and fluid film storytelling can be—especially in big-budget productions like this.

This isn’t the first time Ashley has faced industry challenges. Last year, she made headlines for skipping the Bridgerton Season 2 premiere to prioritize her mental health—an honest and admirable choice that resonated with fans worldwide.

Despite her limited screen time, Ashley’s name attached to F1 continues to fuel interest, highlighting her growing influence in the entertainment industry. Her participation still lends star power and visibility, even without lines.

As the June 27 release date approaches, audiences are revving up for a high-octane cinematic experience. With Brad Pitt behind the wheel and Kosinski directing, F1 is primed to be a major summer hit—even if one of its brightest stars has been sidelined.