Introduction: Bridgerton’s Breakout Stars and Their Diverging Paths
When Bridgerton premiered, it catapulted both Jonathan Bailey and Regé-Jean Page to stardom. However, their career trajectories since the Regency-era drama couldn’t be more different. While Page sought immediate blockbuster success, Bailey took a more deliberate approach, opting for a mix of television, theater, and prestige roles. As 2025 looms, Bailey’s calculated risks are paying off in ways Page might not have anticipated.
Regé-Jean Page: A Bold Leap Toward Hollywood’s Blockbusters
Page’s Exit After One Season
Regé-Jean Page captured hearts as Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, in Bridgerton’s debut season. His departure from the series was seen as a bold move to chase Hollywood stardom. While fans mourned his absence, Page made it clear that his arc on the show was complete, describing the role as a “limited series” gig (via Variety).
Action-Adventure Roles: A Risky Bet
Page’s next moves included two major action-adventure films:
- The Gray Man (2022): Page played CIA official Denny Carmichael in Netflix’s star-studded action film. Despite high expectations, the movie faded into obscurity, and his role was criticized as underwritten.
- Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023): As Xenk Yendar, a noble paladin, Page earned praise for his comedic timing, but the movie underperformed at the box office.
Limited Projects Since 2023
Since Dungeons & Dragons, Page’s career momentum has slowed. His upcoming credit for 2025, The Black Bag, is a supporting role in Steven Soderbergh’s spy thriller, far from the leading-man status he once seemed destined for.
Jonathan Bailey: A Steady Climb to Stardom
Staying Loyal to Bridgerton
Unlike Page, Jonathan Bailey remained part of the Bridgerton family. After starring as Anthony Bridgerton in season 2, Bailey took a smaller role in subsequent seasons but maintained his connection to the show’s fanbase. This decision proved invaluable in keeping his star power alive while exploring other opportunities.
Diverse Roles in Theater and Television
Bailey’s versatility shone through his theater and TV projects:
- Fellow Travelers (2023): This historical queer romance-thriller earned critical acclaim, with Bailey’s nuanced performance as the lead garnering particular praise.
- West End Theater: Starring in the revival of Cock, Bailey explored themes of sexuality and identity, aligning with his real-life advocacy for LGBTQ+ representation.
A Breakout Year in Film
Bailey’s commitment to challenging roles and consistent engagement with fans has set him up for a monumental 2025, with two major films on the horizon:
- Wicked: For Good (2025): As Fiyero, Bailey steps into a beloved role in the highly anticipated Wicked sequel.
- Jurassic World Rebirth (2025): Sharing the screen with Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali, Bailey is poised to become a global box-office draw.
Why Jonathan Bailey’s Strategy Works Better
Building Fan Loyalty
Bailey’s continued appearances in Bridgerton kept him relevant to fans while giving him room to explore prestige projects.
Diverse Portfolio
Bailey has taken on roles that showcase his range—from historical dramas to musicals—making him a versatile actor producers want to work with.
Upcoming Blockbusters
With Wicked and Jurassic World lined up, Bailey is positioned to dominate 2025, cementing his status as a household name.
Page’s Challenges and Opportunities
Missteps in Role Selection
While Page aimed for blockbuster success, his choices didn’t resonate with audiences or critics as expected.
Charisma Waiting for the Right Project
Despite setbacks, Page’s undeniable charisma means he’s one great role away from reigniting his career.
Bailey’s Calculated Risks Pay Off
Bailey’s approach—balancing fan-favorite roles with challenging, character-driven projects—has given him a strong foundation for stardom. His loyalty to Bridgerton and smart project selection make him the bigger star heading into 2025.
Conclusion
Jonathan Bailey and Regé-Jean Page both emerged as breakout stars of Bridgerton, but their career paths showcase the importance of strategy in Hollywood. While Page’s direct pursuit of blockbusters has yet to yield the results he hoped for, Bailey’s steady climb, built on versatility and fan loyalty, has positioned him for a spectacular 2025.
FAQs
1. Why did Regé-Jean Page leave Bridgerton?
Page left after season 1, stating that his character’s arc was complete and that he saw the show as a “limited series” for his role.
2. What are Jonathan Bailey’s major projects for 2025?
Bailey stars in Wicked: For Good and Jurassic World Rebirth, two highly anticipated films.
3. Did Dungeons & Dragons hurt Regé-Jean Page’s career?
While Page’s performance was praised, the movie’s box office failure didn’t boost his career as expected.
4. How has Jonathan Bailey balanced Bridgerton with other roles?
Bailey has taken on smaller roles in Bridgerton while pursuing impactful theater and TV projects, maintaining his relevance.
5. Who is more popular: Jonathan Bailey or Regé-Jean Page?
As of 2025, Bailey’s diverse portfolio and upcoming blockbusters make him the bigger star.
