Introduction: Two Stars, Two Different Journeys
Bridgerton launched the careers of several talented actors, but none have captured the spotlight quite like Jonathan Bailey and Regé-Jean Page. While both actors emerged as fan favorites, they took drastically different approaches to Hollywood stardom. One stayed loyal to Bridgerton while expanding into diverse projects, while the other pursued blockbuster roles right away. Now, as we head into 2025, one of them is set for a significantly bigger year in entertainment. Let’s break down their career choices and how they shaped their futures.
Regé-Jean Page: The Fast Track to Hollywood?
Leaving Bridgerton for Bigger Things
Regé-Jean Page became a household name after portraying Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, in Bridgerton Season 1. Unlike his co-stars, Page saw the show as a stepping stone rather than a long-term commitment. He signed on knowing his arc was limited and left after one season to chase bigger Hollywood opportunities.
The Action Hero Route: Hits and Misses
After leaving Bridgerton, Page was cast in two major action-adventure films:
- The Gray Man (2022) – A Netflix action thriller directed by the Russo Brothers, where Page played CIA official Denny Carmichael. Despite its star-studded cast, the film failed to make a lasting impact.
- Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023) – Page played the noble paladin Xenk Yendar in this fantasy film. Though critically well-received, it struggled at the box office.
While Page banked on these roles propelling him to A-list status, they didn’t have the breakthrough effect he hoped for.
What’s Next for Page?
Looking ahead to 2025, Page has only one confirmed project: The Black Bag, a spy thriller directed by Steven Soderbergh. While this could be a game-changer, his career momentum has undeniably slowed compared to his former Bridgerton co-stars.
Jonathan Bailey: A More Strategic Approach
Staying Connected to Bridgerton
Unlike Page, Jonathan Bailey embraced his Bridgerton role beyond just a single season. As Anthony Bridgerton, he took center stage in Season 2 and returned in Season 3 in a smaller capacity. His continued involvement keeps him connected to the show’s massive fanbase, maintaining relevance while pursuing other projects.
Building a Versatile Portfolio
Bailey has balanced mainstream roles with prestigious and experimental projects:
- Fellow Travelers (2023) – A critically acclaimed miniseries where he played a complex queer character.
- Cock (2023) – A West End stage play tackling themes of sexuality and identity.
- Heartstopper (2024) – A guest appearance in the beloved Netflix LGBTQ+ series.
This strategy has allowed Bailey to prove his acting range and avoid being typecast.
2025: A Massive Year for Bailey
Unlike Page, Bailey has two major movies lined up for 2025:
- Wicked: For Good (November 2025) – Starring as Fiyero in the highly anticipated adaptation of the Broadway hit Wicked.
- Jurassic World Rebirth (Summer 2025) – A major blockbuster where he stars alongside Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali.
These projects set Bailey up for a massive breakthrough in mainstream Hollywood.
Who Made the Smarter Career Move?
Page’s Risky Leap vs. Bailey’s Strategic Growth
While Page aimed for immediate movie stardom, his choices haven’t solidified his A-list status yet. Meanwhile, Bailey took a more patient approach, nurturing his fanbase while securing impactful roles. As a result, Bailey is now positioned for a career-defining year in 2025.
The Power of Fan Loyalty
Bailey’s continued involvement with Bridgerton kept him relevant, whereas Page’s departure made him fade from public conversation. This contrast proves that sometimes, staying loyal to a hit franchise can be more beneficial in the long run.
Conclusion: The Road to Long-Term Stardom
While both actors remain incredibly talented and successful, Jonathan Bailey’s career choices have positioned him for greater success in 2025. His versatility, strategic project selection, and continued fan engagement make him the Bridgerton alum to watch in Hollywood’s next big wave of stars.
FAQs
1. Why did Regé-Jean Page leave Bridgerton?
Page left after Season 1 because he felt his character’s story arc was complete. He wanted to pursue other Hollywood opportunities.
2. Will Jonathan Bailey return for Bridgerton Season 4?
Yes! Bailey has already filmed scenes for Bridgerton Season 4 and will appear in a supporting role.
3. What is Jonathan Bailey’s biggest upcoming movie?
Bailey will star as Fiyero in Wicked: For Good, one of 2025’s most anticipated films.
4. Did Regé-Jean Page regret leaving Bridgerton?
There’s no public statement of regret, but his career has slowed compared to his Bridgerton co-stars.
5. Who is the bigger star now: Bailey or Page?
As of 2025, Bailey has a bigger Hollywood presence with leading roles in major franchises like Wicked and Jurassic World Rebirth.
