Culture / People

Lord, Jonathan Bailey has us in a choke hold, and here’s why

There's a certain magnetic pull to Jonathan Bailey. It goes beyond his undeniable charm and captivating performances. Perhaps it's the wickedly enigmatic tension he creates on-screen, you almost feel bad for his screen partners, because no way you're walking off set without being in a state of unrequited love.

From captivating audiences in the intimate confines of London's theatre scene to gracing the screens of Netflix's record-breaking phenomenon, Bridgerton, Bailey's career trajectory is a testament to his dedication, and ever-evolving talent. In only two seasons Bridgerton has earned itself a spot in the minds and hearts of a global audience – each in adoration of its charm, romance and (of course) its fashion – but we haven't talked about enough is the personal style of Lord Anthony Bridgerton – AKA British actor Jonathan Bailey.

But Bailey is more than just a period drama darling. His recent Critics Choice Award win for his leading role in Fellow Travellers showcases his remarkable versatility, taking on the role of telling the story of LGBTQIA+ liberation from the 20th century, transcending all cinematic genre's. And with his next film Wicked month away from it release date and talks of his next production, one thing we can be certain of is this is not the last time you will hear from Mr Bailey, or should I say Lord?

It's no surprise that we have become vigorously betrothed by Jonathan Bailey, and if you are still unfamiliar, or want to know more about him, let us enlighten you.

 

Who is Jonathan Bailey?

Jonathan Stuart Bailey was born 25 April, 1988 – making him a Taurus – is an English actor most known for his role in Netflix's popular Regency-period Bridgerton series, where he plays one of the titular Bridgerton siblings: Lord Anthony Bridgerton. Bailey snagged the coveted role while he was starring in the West End revival of Company in 2018, for which he took home a Best Supporting Actor Olivier Award in 2019.

However, Bailey says that if he hadn't succeeded as an actor he would have become a teacher. “If I wasn’t an actor, I think I’d love to be a primary school teacher,” Bailey said in a recent inerview. “I mean, I think all teachers are basically modern-day heroes. And I love going to see my niece in her nativities at school. I always think they’re just so sweet and lovely. Watching the next generation of Baileys grow up, you just realise how informative those years are and I think being a part of that is pretty special.”

Bailey is set up for a massive year – gearing up for the upcoming third season of Bridgertonand taking on the role of Prince Fiyero in the highly anticipated Wicked musical film adaptation.

 

He's best known In Bridgeton, what else has he been in?

Most known for his performance as Viscount Bridgeton, Bailey has been on stage and screen for quite some time, before he landed his lordship. Starring alongside Fleabags Phoebe Waller-Bridge in Crashing, British Tv Show's Chewing Gum and W1A, his most recent role, is co-leading with Matt Bomer in the Fellow Traveler. On stage, Bailey has performed across theatres in London, cast in productions such as Cock alongside Taron Egerton in 2022, winning his Olivier award for his supporting role in Company the musical in 2018.

 

What's his next movie?

The beginning of this year Bailey just wrapped filming for the highly anticipated film, Wicked, set to release in November this year. Starring alongside Ariana Grande, Michele Yeoh, and Cynthia Erivo, his role is Elphaba's love interest, Prince Fiyero. There's nothing more I love to hear then Jonathan Bailey being cast as a love interest.

While nothing is confirmed, there have been early talks of Bailey being casted as the next leading man in the Jurassic World movie. Universal Studios have said little, but have spoke the release date for the film will be 2nd July 2025.

 

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Jonathan Bailey's style

Bailey is also making a splash off-camera and on red carpets, serving up some fashion-forward looks we simply need to talk about. Since catapulting to fame, he's worked with some major luxury fashion houses – attending fashion shows in Paris for Loewe, tennis grand slam matches with Ralph Lauren and last year's Met Gala with Tom Ford. Below, check out some of our favourite Jonathan Bailey style moments so far.

 

 

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At the Golden Globes last month, wearing Givenchy.

 

 

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At Wimbledon last year, wearing Ralph Lauren.

 

Exiting The Ambassadors Theatre, 2022.

 

 

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Attending The Mercy world premiere in London.

 

 

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At the Loewe Menswear Fall Winter 22 show in Paris, wearing Loewe.

 

 

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Attending the Loewe Foundation Studio Voltaire Award last year.

 

At the Ralph Lauren SS24 runway show during New York Fashion Week.

 

At his first Met Gala in Tom Ford.

 

During press for his film Fellow Traelers with co-star Matt Bomer.

 

On This Morning show.

 

Having a ball at Pride in London, 2019.

 

At the 2023 French Open, wearing Lacoste.

 

Attending Canada Goose x London's Flagship Opening and 60th Anniversary at Canada House in 2017.

 

 

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Cover image via Instagram.