Jonathan Bailey, best known for his portrayal of Viscount Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s Bridgerton, has captured hearts worldwide with his brooding glances and undeniable charm. As one of the standout figures in the show’s massive success, Bailey’s rise to fame has been nothing short of meteoric. However, despite the global adoration and the soaring Netflix stardom, Bailey is quick to downplay the idea that Bridgerton marked his “big break.” In fact, he believes that moment came nearly ten years prior with his stellar performance in Othello at the National Theatre.
Othello: The Moment That Shaped Jonathan Bailey’s Career
While Bridgerton may have introduced Bailey to a wider audience, his true career-defining moment came with his portrayal of Cassio in the 2013 production of Othello. This role, he claims, was the real turning point of his career. It wasn’t the flashing cameras and tabloids that made an impact but the recognition of his craft by some of the most respected figures in the industry. In a recent Vogue interview, Bailey reflected:
“People assume I sobbed in the mirror when Bridgerton took off, but the moment that really broke me, and made me, happened ten years before Shondaland came knocking.”
Bailey’s time in the theatre, especially in Othello, solidified his dedication to his craft. The success of Bridgerton may have brought new fame, but it was the stage that truly shaped him as an actor. In an industry that often ties success to social media following and fleeting popularity, Bailey is proud that his success in theatre was based solely on his talent and commitment to his craft.
Bridgerton: A Stepping Stone to Global Stardom
Despite the massive fanfare that followed his role in Bridgerton, Bailey insists that the show didn’t define him—it simply gave him the opportunity to showcase his refined acting skills on a grander stage. For him, Bridgerton was more than just a career boost; it was an introduction to the OTT (Over-The-Top) world, where his performance as Anthony Bridgerton became a global sensation. Bailey’s success on the show was a testament to the strength of his theatre background, which helped him tackle the complex role with grace and ease.
Bailey doesn’t shy away from acknowledging that Bridgerton introduced him to a whole new audience, but he’s keen to remind us that it was his extensive work in the theatre that truly prepared him for such a challenge. The actor’s background in musical theatre, a world known for its demand for precision and dedication, played a significant role in shaping him into the star that millions now adore.
Theatre: The True Heart of Jonathan Bailey’s Craft
For Bailey, the world of theatre is where an actor truly pays their dues. It’s a space for them to endure, suffer, and grow into their craft. Bridgerton, with all its fame and glitz, came later—after years of hard work and dedication on the stage. The world may have first noticed Bailey in a steamy Bridgerton scene, but for him, the real work was done on stage, where he faced the intense demands of live performance.
Theatre, Bailey explains, is where actors truly test their abilities, and the rewards, though often slow to come, are incredibly fulfilling. Bailey’s work in theatre—particularly in roles like Cassio in Othello—is a testament to his commitment to his craft. As he continues to rise in the entertainment world, it’s clear that theatre will always remain at the heart of his artistry.
Post-Bridgerton: Jonathan Bailey’s Bold Choices in the Industry
After the success of Bridgerton, Bailey has made a conscious effort to steer away from being typecast. His roles in projects like Fellow Travelers—a heartrending queer love story set in the oppressive political climate of the 1950s—and his upcoming role in Wicked, show that he’s not interested in being pigeonholed into any one category.
Bailey’s choices speak to his desire for challenging, meaningful roles that allow him to grow as an actor and continue pushing boundaries. His role in Fellow Travelers was particularly noteworthy, as it marked a departure from his usual fare, exploring complex and emotional territory within a historical context. Similarly, his involvement in Wicked points to his ongoing commitment to innovative and experimental projects.
Returning to Theatre: Richard II Marks a Full Circle Moment
As Bailey continues to branch out into new territory, he’s also returning to his theatre roots. One of his most anticipated projects is his role in Richard II, which will be directed by Nicholas Hytner—the first director to truly believe in him. This return to theatre is symbolic for Bailey, marking a full-circle moment in his career. It’s a chance to revisit the space where his love for acting began and to reconnect with the raw, unfiltered demands of live performance.
Bailey’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors everywhere. From his early days on the stage to his rise in the world of television, his story demonstrates that success is not always immediate but earned through dedication, passion, and resilience. His return to the theatre is a powerful reminder that the path to true artistic growth often starts in the most humble of places.
The Humble Beginnings of Jonathan Bailey’s Career
Jonathan Bailey’s career is a testament to the fact that true success isn’t always about the loudest accolades or the flashiest roles. It’s about the work put in behind the scenes, the quiet risks taken, and the dedication to one’s craft. From his early theatre roles to his breakthrough in Bridgerton, Bailey’s story is proof that the most rewarding careers come from a balance of talent, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks.
Today, as he returns to his theatre roots in Richard II, it’s clear that Jonathan Bailey’s journey is far from over. With every project, he continues to redefine what it means to be an actor in today’s ever-evolving entertainment landscape.