Jonathan Bailey, the charming star of the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked, has opened up about his remarkable acting career and personal experiences. Known for his role as Fiyero, Jonathan has had quite the storied career, beginning at age seven with the Royal Shakespeare Company. His first acting stint, as he humorously recounted during his appearance on BBC Radio 2's Breakfast Show on November 27, 2023, was as raindrop. "I played a raindrop, it was a sort of hybrid nativity, and it forgot to rain because someone queue jumped," he shared with laughs, reminding listeners of the whimsical nature of early theater experiences.
Since then, Bailey has risen to stardom, primarily known for his standout role as Viscount Anthony Bridgerton on Netflix's smash hit Bridgerton. His performance won over audiences, leading him to reappear for multiple seasons. Alongside his Bridgerton fame, Bailey is now taking on the role of Fiyero, which is set to showcase his singing and dancing talents, blending his early roots with his current star status.
The excitement around Wicked, directed by Jon M. Chu and set for release in 2024, is palpable, especially as it stars Bailey alongside powerhouse performers like Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Bailey expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, "The role reminded me of two things in the sort of purest version of who I am. I loved dancing and I loved singing. And to be able to return tothat, it all sort of feels full circle." This sentiment echoes the nostalgia many performers feel when they return to their roots.
Speaking of roots, the financial aspect of the Wicked cast is quite intriguing. While solid figures are available for some cast members, Bailey's net worth remains somewhat elusive. According to various sources, Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba, has an estimated net worth of $3 million, courtesy of her award-winning work on Broadway and cinematic portrayals, including her two Oscar nominations for Harriet.
When it came to Bailey, estimates are more difficult to pin down, but they reflect his growing status and success. Following the breakout performance on Bridgerton and the upcoming Wicked, industry insiders speculate his worth is poised to grow substantially, especially with such high-profile productions.
While Bailey's financial situation may not be firmly established yet, his remarkable transformations as an actor have been undeniable. Throughout his career, he's not only appeared on stage but has also excelled on screen, earning praise for diverse roles across various genres. His nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor at the Primetime Emmy Awards for his role in Fellow Travellers solidifies his place among serious contenders.
Within the broader cast of Wicked, there are varying net worth figures, though many are reported to be significantly behind the lead, with one, reported to have earned nearly $200 million more than any other cast member, but many details remain scarce. These financial discrepancies provide intriguing conversation topics for fans and industry watchers, emphasizing how just one role can skyrocket star status.
Beyond just financial discussions, Bailey's portrayal of Fiyero is expected to showcase his range — exposing audiences to the charm and comic timing he's known for from his time on shows like W1A and Crashing, where he beautifully balanced character depth and humor. Critics anticipate much excitement with his transition back to musical theater, promising the kind of performance fans can't wait to see.
Jonathan's ability to weave through various genres, from drama to comedy to musicals, highlights the depth of his talents. His role as Tim Laughlin, alongside Matt Bomer’s character, has also been noted as another noteworthy project, indicating his fluidity within the industry.
With so much riding on Bailey's shoulders as Wicked rapidly approaches, fans are eager to see how he navigates this latest role and the potential it holds for his career. While the road may have begun with small roles, it’s clear Jonathan Bailey has evolved significantly, ready to showcase the talents he's honed throughout the years.
So, audiences can prepare for not just his role but also for the future depths of his acting prowess as we witness his evolution on screen. Whether he is depicted as charming, serious, or wholly unexpected, Bailey has captivated audiences, and there’s plenty more to come.