Jonathan Bailey and Regé-Jean Page: Divergent Paths to Movie Stardom Leading to a Promising 2025

Regé-Jean Page emerged as a standout talent in the inaugural season of Bridgerton, captivating audiences as the Duke of Hastings, who became the romantic focus of Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor). Despite his significant impact, Page opted to leave the series after just one season to chase a more conventional Hollywood stardom. His decision to take on a role in Bridgerton stemmed from the understanding that his character’s journey would conclude within that single season, thus aligning with his goal of participating in a “limited series”(source: Variety). While fans expressed concerns about the show’s future without Simon Basset, Bridgerton has continued to prosper, whereas Page’s career has seen a noticeable slowdown.

In contrast, Jonathan Bailey, who portrays Anthony Bridgerton, stepped into the lead romantic role for the second season and transitioned to a supporting character in the third season while gearing up for the fourth. Unlike Page, Bailey has embraced the series as part of his “family,”committing to return regularly (source: Deadline). This decision has not only solidified his connection with the dedicated fanbase but has also allowed him the flexibility to engage in significant theater and television projects. Consequently, Bailey is strategically positioning himself for a major film breakthrough in 2025.

Regé-Jean Page Departed from Bridgerton to Pursue Action-Adventure Films

Page Featured in The Gray Man and Dungeons & Dragons

Upon exiting Bridgerton, Page became associated with two action-adventure films perceived as strong prospects in Hollywood. He portrayed Denny Carmichael, a shrewd CIA agent and secondary antagonist in The Gray Man, alongside Chris Evans and directed by the renowned Russo brothers behind the Avengers series. However, Page’s character received criticism for being underdeveloped, especially given his prior acclaim from Bridgerton, leading to the film’s eventual fading into Netflix’s catalog.

In the second season of Bridgerton, Daphne Bridgerton returns to support her siblings’ romantic endeavors, attributing her husband’s absence to the obligations of his title.

Meanwhile, in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, Page takes on the role of Xenk Yendar, a noble paladin who assists the main characters on their journey. Although the film did not perform well at the box office, it received acclaim from both critics and audiences, especially praising Page’s character for its blend of earnestness and self-aware humor.

Page seems to be following a classic path toward leading-man status, taking on roles in films with major box office potential, akin to Glen Powell’s breakout in Top Gun: Maverick. However, Page’s film choices have yet to unlock the leading roles he anticipates following his initial success with Bridgerton. Despite his previous consideration for the iconic James Bond role, recent projects, such as The Gray Man and Dungeons & Dragons, have left him relatively inactive on the new project front.

Jonathan Bailey Maintains Presence in Bridgerton While Expanding His Range in Theater and Prestige Projects

Bailey Nurtures His Bridgerton Fanbase Alongside Diverse Roles in Theater and Television

As the romantic lead in Bridgerton‘s second season, Jonathan Bailey’s character, Viscount Anthony Bridgerton, has since shifted to a more subdued role in the subsequent season but will also appear in the upcoming fourth season. Fans have expressed appreciation for the presence of both Anthony and his love interest, Kate Bridgerton (Simone Ashley), in key moments during the third season, as their narrative continues beyond the bounds of marriage.

While maintaining a connection with Bridgerton in his supporting role, Bailey has seized the opportunity to explore diverse projects in theater and television. He made his mark in the historical queer romance-thriller miniseries Fellow Travelers, earning critical acclaim for his nuanced performance. Additionally, Bailey starred in a revival of the play Cock, exploring complex themes of sexuality through the eyes of a gay man torn between his feelings for a woman. Openly gay since 2018, Bailey gravitates toward projects that engage with intricate questions surrounding identity.

By prioritizing smaller, nuanced roles in theater and television over blockbuster-style action films, Bailey is carefully constructing a career rich in dramatic prestige. His ongoing involvement in Bridgerton allows him to cultivate a loyal fanbase, while he prepares for not one, but two highly anticipated films set for release in 2025.

Jonathan Bailey Emerges as the Bigger Star for 2025 with Two Major Upcoming Films

Bailey Stars in Wicked: For Good & Jurassic World Rebirth in 2025

The musical Wicked is bound to solidify Jonathan Bailey’s status as a household name, as fans of his portrayal of Fiyero begin to explore his previous works, such as Crashing and Broadchurch. Although career paths in Hollywood rarely follow a straight route, Page still has the potential to shine if he lands the right project. Nonetheless, Bailey appears poised to become the blockbuster star that Page is striving to emulate. The year 2025 holds great promise for Bailey, with expectations surpassing those of 2024.

In stark contrast, Regé-Jean Page’s upcoming work for 2025 includes a supporting role in Steven Soderbergh’s spy thriller, The Black Bag.

Bailey is set to showcase his talent in Wicked: For Good in November and also stars in one of the summer’s major blockbusters, Jurassic World Rebirth, alongside well-known actors like Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali. By embracing a less conventional path, showcasing his diverse abilities, and maintaining a strong connection with his Bridgerton followers, Bailey has transformed into a highly coveted option for producers eager to leverage his popularity, thus positioning himself for significant stardom in 2025.

Sources: Variety, Deadline

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