**Jonathan Bailey Expands Acting Slate with New Film Projects**
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British actor Jonathan Bailey has confirmed his involvement in two exciting new films, dispelling recent speculation about a lengthy hiatus from acting. The 38-year-old, who is currently reigning as the Sexiest Man Alive, will star alongside Laura Dern in “Monsanto” and Natalie Portman in “Pumping Black.”
Last September, in an interview with British GQ, Bailey raised eyebrows among fans when he suggested he would be taking significant time off to focus on his charity work with The Shameless Fund. However, in a subsequent conversation with Esquire U.K., he explained that an “unfortunate misquote” had led to widespread misunderstanding, resulting in headlines proclaiming he had quit acting entirely.
“It’s funny how quickly things can get out of control,” Bailey noted, reflecting on the impact of the media’s interpretation of his words. “The headlines were ‘Jonathan Bailey has quit acting.’ I learnt at that moment that you can’t control it.”
Clarifying his position, Bailey stated, “As it stands at the moment, I’ll definitely be back to work next year. I’m not taking the whole of 2026 off,” suggesting a renewed commitment to his acting career alongside his philanthropic efforts.
Bailey’s busy schedule includes a range of notable roles, having previously starred as Fiyero in the film adaptation of “Wicked” directed by Jon M. Chu. He also featured in “Jurassic World: Rebirth,” sharing the screen with distinguished actors such as Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali. In spring 2025, he took on the challenging role of William Shakespeare’s Richard II at the Bridge Theatre in London, and he recently reprised his role in Netflix’s “Bridgerton,” which premiered its fourth season earlier this year.
The first of his upcoming films, “Monsanto,” directed by John Lee Hancock, is a courtroom drama centred around the real-life legal battles involving the agrochemical giant Monsanto. Bailey will portray attorney Brent Wisner, stepping into a role previously earmarked for Glen Powell. The film also stars Anthony Mackie and promises to delve into important themes pertaining to corporate ethics and environmental issues.
The second film, “Pumping Black,” which stars Natalie Portman in addition to Bailey, is described by Variety as a psychological thriller exploring the fiercely competitive world of professional cycling. This project adds an intriguing element to Bailey’s diverse portfolio, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Beyond his cinematic commitments, Bailey is set to reunite with his “Wicked” co-star Ariana Grande for a revival of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s acclaimed musical “Sunday in the Park with George,” which is slated for the West End in 2027. This reunion highlights the collaborative spirit within the theatre community and Bailey’s ongoing connections within it.
In addition to his acting career, Bailey is dedicated to his charity work through The Shameless Fund, which aims to raise vital funds for LGBTQ+ advocacy organisations. He has expressed a strong belief in the potential of individuals and communities to make a positive difference, particularly during challenging times for the LGBTQ+ sector.
“There are so many people that want to do brilliant stuff who feel like they can’t,” he remarked. “It’s been amazing to meet people who have the expertise and see potential that I could have only dreamed of.”
With a schedule brimming with fresh projects and a commitment to charitable endeavours, Jonathan Bailey continues to capture the attention of both his fans and the film industry. As he embarks on this new chapter, it is clear that his passion for acting remains steadfast, paving the way for an exciting future in both film and theatre.