In a recent interview with Interview magazine, actor Jonathan Bailey got candid about his experiences in the entertainment industry. Known for his roles in popular shows like 'Crashing' and 'Bridgerton,' Bailey has caught the attention of audiences and fellow actors alike. His undeniable sex appeal and ability to bring a unique energy to his performances have earned him praise from his peers.
Bailey's chemistry with 'Crashing' co-star and creator, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, has been particularly noteworthy. Waller-Bridge described Bailey as a 'chemistry machine' and praised his understanding of tension, attributing it to their time working together on her sitcom in 2016. Bailey, in turn, acknowledged the creative environment created by Waller-Bridge and the right group of people involved in the production.
Describing his character Sam in 'Crashing,' Bailey likened the experience to being on the constant edge of an orgasm and hysteria. Waller-Bridge concurred, describing Sam's wild and beautiful energy. Despite the show's limited run of only six episodes eight years ago, Bailey and Waller-Bridge managed to uncover interesting tidbits about his character choices during filming. Bailey revealed that the frosted tips sported by Sam were inspired by Justin Timberlake's double denim look, though Waller-Bridge didn't recall them being in the script.
Reflecting on his journey in the industry, Bailey shared his passion for Shakespeare and the expectations he had as a performer. Admitting he never thought he would play a leading man role, Bailey has found himself in awe of other actors and performances. He described his fear and the pressure to deliver when an opportunity arises.
Bailey emphasized the importance of feeling free in his work, mentioning that his best performances come from a state of freedom. He acknowledged the negative impact of restrictive environments and the need to adapt quickly to find that freedom. This understanding has allowed him to choose his roles carefully and embrace stories that resonate with him personally.
As a gay actor, Bailey has made deliberate choices in his career, selecting roles that explore LGBTQ+ narratives. His decision to star alongside Matt Bomer in 'Fellow Travelers,' a romantic period drama, was a no-brainer for him. Bailey expressed a desire to be part of sweeping gay love stories that he had not seen frequently in the industry. This particular project ticked all the boxes for him and is something he is immensely proud of.
With newfound agency in his career, Bailey recognizes the responsibility that comes with having choices. No longer solely waiting for auditions and projects to come his way, he is grateful for the opportunity to be selective about the roles he takes on. Bailey understands the rarity of having such freedom and is determined not to waste it.
Jonathan Bailey's talents and dedication to his craft have earned him well-deserved recognition in the entertainment world. Whether it's the erotic energy he brings to his characters or his ability to create tension, Bailey's performances captivate audiences and draw praise from his colleagues. With his recent successes and the doors opening for him, it's clear that Bailey is poised to make a lasting impact in the industry.
If you want to catch Bailey's performances, 'Crashing' and 'Bridgerton' can be streamed on Netflix, and 'Fellow Travelers' is available on Paramount+.
