Jonathan Bailey

Whether he is starring as Lord Anthony Bridgerton on Bridgerton, Tim Laughlin on Fellow Travelers, or Fiyero in the upcoming Wicked movies, Jonathan Bailey is one of the most popular and sought-after actors of our time. But despite his credits playing a wide variety of characters, the largest obstacle he still had to face in 2023 is the “endless, tedious, and archaic commentary that playing gay can capsize a man’s career.”

For both his career and personal life, Bailey is on a mission to continue to make space. “As some of us have stepped into a golden age of progress and representation, let’s remember to look back and make space for those who are yet to be elevated in their privilege,” he says. “Send us brilliant scripts and ideas in which we can support stories of our Black, brown, trans, gender-bent, and underrepresented community members. If I can help get an important story made, I will.”

Speaking of looking back, Bailey is incredibly proud to “help bring an important new queer story to screen. One that I know I would have devoured and cherished had I not been a part of it.”

Beginning with the McCarthyism of the 1950s, Fellow Travelers tells a love story between men that spans several decades and tackles the new obstacles that came with each of them.

“We are benefactors of the battles of our queer ancestors of all races and gender identities, so we must continue to fight for everyone on our Pride flag. I believe wholeheartedly that this concept works across all industries. If we keep wrestling to make space for others, our complicated, sensitive, sexy community will remain as unified, generous, and fearless as possible. United.” @jbayleaf