Jonathan Bailey, the beloved star of Netflix’s “Bridgerton” and the blockbuster film “Wicked,” has made a surprising announcement that’s sending shockwaves through Hollywood. In a recent interview with British GQ, the 37-year-old revealed: “I’ve been working solidly for about three years now, which has been amazing and mind-blowing. But with everything happening in the world right now, I’m going to stop acting for a bit next year and just focus on the Shameless Fund.”
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Bridgerton Shameless Fund: Bailey’s Passion Project
Jonathan Bailey wants to move away from acting to focus on his own personal LGBTQ+ project, the Shameless Fund, which raises money for LGBTQIA+ charities through brand collaborations. This decision reflects his deep commitment to advocacy work that goes beyond the entertainment industry.
The timing of this announcement coincides with his recent collaboration with eyewear brand Cubitts, launching pink glasses to support his foundation’s mission.
Career Highlights Leading to This Decision
| Project | Year | Role | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgerton Season 2 | 2022 | Anthony Bridgerton | Global Netflix phenomenon |
| Fellow Travelers | 2023 | Tim Laughlin | Emmy-nominated performance |
| Wicked | 2024 | Fiyero | Critics called him “an outrageous scene-stealer” |
| Wicked: Part Two | 2025 | Fiyero | Upcoming sequel |
The Timing: Why 2026?
While his 2025 schedule is set, Bailey plans to take his acting break in 2026 to dedicate himself fully to The Shameless Fund. This strategic timing allows him to fulfill existing commitments while preparing for his advocacy-focused year.
The decision comes after an incredibly demanding period that saw Bailey transition from period drama heartthrob to movie musical star, showcasing his remarkable range as a performer.
Understanding The Shameless Fund’s Mission
Bailey’s nonprofit organization focuses on supporting LGBTQIA+ causes through innovative partnerships with brands and businesses. The fund represents more than just charity work—it’s a personal mission stemming from his own experiences as an openly gay actor in the entertainment industry.
Key Initiatives Include:
- Brand collaborations for fundraising
- Community outreach programs
- Visibility campaigns for LGBTQ+ rights
- Educational workshops and resources
For more information on LGBTQ+ advocacy in entertainment, check our diversity and inclusion coverage and celebrity activism profiles.
Industry Response to Bailey’s Decision
The entertainment industry has largely praised Bailey’s decision to prioritize advocacy work. His choice reflects a growing trend among successful actors who use their platforms for social change rather than solely pursuing career advancement.
After a busy few years on screen, Jonathan Bailey is taking a step back from Hollywood to focus on a cause close to his heart. This move demonstrates the actor’s maturity and commitment to making a lasting impact beyond entertainment.
What This Means for Fans
While fans will miss seeing Bailey on screen, his temporary departure from acting doesn’t mean disappearing entirely. The Shameless Fund’s activities will likely keep him visible in advocacy spaces, and his planned return to acting after 2026 gives supporters something to anticipate.
His recent absence from major events like the 2025 Golden Globes already hints at his shifting priorities as he prepares for this career transition.
The Bigger Picture: Celebrity Advocacy
Bailey’s decision represents a significant trend where established actors leverage their success for social causes. His approach—temporarily stepping away rather than juggling both commitments—shows serious dedication to creating meaningful change.
Visit the official British GQ website for the complete interview and more celebrity profiles.
Looking Ahead: A Temporary Goodbye
Jonathan Bailey has charmed the audience with his good looks and performances in Bridgerton and Wicked, but amid some successful runs, the actor announced that he is stepping away from acting. This temporary hiatus promises to enhance his impact both as an advocate and, eventually, as a returning performer with deeper purpose.
His commitment to The Shameless Fund may inspire other celebrities to consider similar dedicated periods for their passion projects, potentially reshaping how we think about celebrity responsibility and activism.
Stay updated with the latest celebrity career moves and advocacy work in our Hollywood news section for more exclusive entertainment industry coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Jonathan Bailey taking a break from acting?
A: Jonathan Bailey is stepping away from acting in 2026 to focus entirely on his LGBTQ+ advocacy work through The Shameless Fund. In his British GQ interview, he explained that after working solidly for three years on major projects like Bridgerton and Wicked, he wants to dedicate time to his charity work, stating: “with everything happening in the world right now, I’m going to stop acting for a bit next year.”
Q: Is Jonathan Bailey permanently retiring from acting?
A: No, Jonathan Bailey’s break from acting appears to be temporary. He specifically mentioned stopping acting “for a bit next year” to focus on The Shameless Fund, suggesting he plans to return to acting after dedicating focused time to his LGBTQ+ advocacy work. His 2025 schedule remains intact with Wicked: Part Two, and the break is planned for 2026.
