In an era when Hollywood often struggles to cultivate new, undeniable movie stars, Jonathan Bailey has forged a defiantly unique path, capturing global attention and a fervent fanbase. Best known for his internet-anointed roles in Netflix’s phenomenon Bridgerton and the highly anticipated Wicked film adaptation, the openly gay British actor is challenging conventional industry norms and proving that authenticity and talent are a winning combination.
His journey is far from the typical Hollywood trajectory. The 37-year-old didn’t attend London’s elite drama schools but honed his craft extensively in British theatre, including prestigious work with the Royal Shakespeare Company. From Othello and King Lear to his recent, buzzed-about turn in Richard II, the stage has been his primary training ground since childhood.
An Unconventional Path to Stardom
Bailey’s breakout arrived with Bridgerton, one of Netflix’s most-watched shows ever. While he initially almost passed on the audition, his agent wisely encouraged him to read for one of the roles (he initially read for the Duke, later played by Regé-Jean Page). His portrayal of the brooding Viscount Anthony Bridgerton in seasons one and two catapulted him into the global spotlight. The show’s immense success, arriving during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, felt “a smidge quicker” than he was prepared for, he admits, finding grounding by returning to his theatre roots. Despite his rising film profile, he remains committed to Bridgerton, embracing a supporting role in future seasons with “brotherly pride.”
Following Bridgerton, Bailey made his big-screen Hollywood debut in the $700 million musical extravaganza Wicked. His performance as Prince Fiyero, including a standout solo number, further solidified his appeal and reportedly caught the eye of Jurassic World director Gareth Edwards.
Breaking the Glass Ceiling
Perhaps the most significant aspect of Bailey’s rise is his status as a proudly out gay actor navigating an industry that, historically, presented a “glass ceiling” for LGBTQ+ performers. “You have to unlearn a lot of narratives about yourself that an industry tells you,” he notes. By taking on diverse roles, both straight and gay, across prestige dramas (Fellow Travelers, which earned him an Emmy nomination) and populist fare, he’s dismantling outdated prejudices and proving that sexuality is no barrier to range or mass appeal.
His success isn’t just critical; it’s measurable through awards and fan adoration:
An Olivier Award for the 2018 West End revival of Company.
A fan-voted Sexiest Man Alive readers’ choice honor from People in 2024.
A massive online presence, including over 44 million TikTok fancams.
Enthusiastic crowds so eager to see him after a matinee of Shakespeare’s Richard II that they caused a noise complaint requiring him to stop stage door greetings – a rare problem for an esoteric historical play.
The Blockbuster Test: Jurassic World Rebirth
While audiences have clearly embraced Bailey, dubbing him a star, the industry is still assessing his full potential, particularly his ability to headline major films. As one studio head put it, they “love him and want to see him in more” but aren’t yet sure if he can “carry a movie on his own.”
This question is about to be tested in a significant way with the upcoming release of Jurassic World Rebirth. Co-starring with established heavyweights like Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali, Bailey takes on the role of paleontologist Dr. Henry Loomis in the latest installment of the multibillion-dollar franchise. The $300 million-plus film is tracking for a monster opening weekend, offering a crucial proving ground. If Bailey can bring fervent fans to an obscure Shakespeare play, can he help pack theaters for dinosaurs?
Director Gareth Edwards recounts being impressed not just by Bailey’s talent but his genuine nature. Their first meeting for Jurassic World involved two hours of conversation that barely touched on the movie or the role. Actress Cynthia Erivo, his Wicked co-star, echoes this, describing him as someone who “loves working,” is “always searching for something,” but keeps the “air light.” This undeniable likability, which translates to audiences instantly caring about his characters, is “worth its weight in gold” for filmmakers, according to Edwards. Bailey himself is described as a “good hang,” setting up for a bachelor party and blowing up inflatable zebras during interviews, a stark contrast to the demanding schedule of a rising star.
Looking Ahead
As Bailey prepares for globe-spanning press tours for both Jurassic World Rebirth and the second Wicked film (Wicked: For Good is set for November 2025), he expresses a desire for a well-deserved break. Yet, his core philosophy remains: to “cast a wide net” in his career choices. Having successfully “unlearned the idea of feeling limited,” particularly by outdated notions tied to his identity, Jonathan Bailey is not just winning; he’s redefining what it means to be a Hollywood star in the 21st century.
