Introduction: The Diverging Stars of Bridgerton
When Bridgerton first graced Netflix screens, it captivated audiences with its sumptuous period aesthetics and steamy romances. Two stars quickly emerged as fan favorites: Regé-Jean Page, who played the dashing Duke of Hastings in Season 1, and Jonathan Bailey, whose portrayal of Anthony Bridgerton commanded Season 2. While both actors achieved fame through the series, their paths to stardom couldn’t be more different. In 2025, Bailey is the bigger star, thanks to calculated risks and staying connected to his roots.
Regé-Jean Page’s Departure: The Gamble That Didn’t Pay Off
Page Left Bridgerton for Hollywood’s Action-Adventure Spotlight
After Bridgerton Season 1, Page decided to leave the series, seeking roles in high-profile Hollywood blockbusters. His breakout role as Simon Basset was intended as a one-season arc, allowing him to pursue other opportunities. Fans were shocked and worried about the show’s future without its magnetic Duke, but Bridgerton thrived even as Page’s career momentum slowed.
Page’s Roles in The Gray Man and Dungeons & Dragons
Page first appeared in The Gray Man as CIA official Denny Carmichael. Despite a star-studded cast and the Russo brothers at the helm, the film faded quickly into Netflix’s sea of content. Critics lamented the underwritten role, which failed to leverage Page’s charisma.
His next outing, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, showcased his comedic timing as Xenk Yendar, a stoic paladin guiding the protagonists. While critics praised the film, it bombed at the box office, further stalling Page’s Hollywood ascent.
A Career in Limbo
Though once considered for roles as iconic as James Bond, Page’s current trajectory hasn’t fulfilled its early promise. His sole major 2025 project, The Black Bag, offers hope, but it’s clear he’s yet to find the breakout role that solidifies his stardom.
Jonathan Bailey’s Steady Rise: A Masterclass in Career Building
Bailey Stayed Loyal to Bridgerton
Unlike Page, Bailey remained with Bridgerton, transitioning from Season 2’s romantic lead to a supporting role in Seasons 3 and 4. By doing so, he kept his fanbase engaged while pursuing other projects. His portrayal of Anthony Bridgerton remains beloved, cementing his connection with audiences.
Exploring Theater and Prestige Television
Bailey balanced his Bridgerton appearances with acclaimed roles in theater and television. His lead role in Fellow Travelers, a historical queer romance-thriller, earned widespread critical praise for its complexity and emotional depth. On the West End, Bailey starred in Cock, a play exploring themes of sexuality, further showcasing his range.
Calculated Risks Lead to Major Rewards
Rather than chasing blockbuster hits, Bailey chose roles that challenged him as an actor. This strategy paid off, setting the stage for his emergence as one of 2025’s biggest stars.
2025: The Year Jonathan Bailey Takes Over Hollywood
Wicked: For Good – Bailey’s Star-Making Moment
Bailey’s role as Fiyero in Wicked: For Good, premiering in November 2025, has already generated immense buzz. Fans of the musical are eagerly anticipating his take on the charming and complex character, cementing his status as a household name.
Jurassic World Rebirth: A Summer Blockbuster
In summer 2025, Bailey will appear alongside Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali in Jurassic World Rebirth. This high-profile sequel is expected to dominate the box office, further solidifying Bailey’s blockbuster appeal.
Why Bailey’s Approach Works
By staying true to his Bridgerton roots while expanding his repertoire with prestigious roles, Bailey has positioned himself as a versatile and bankable actor. His ability to balance blockbuster films with meaningful projects makes him a producer’s dream.
Lessons From Their Journeys
Page’s Missed Opportunities
Page’s early departure from Bridgerton left fans wanting more and his subsequent projects failed to capitalize on his breakout role. His focus on action-adventure films hasn’t delivered the career boost he anticipated.
Bailey’s Winning Strategy
Bailey’s commitment to his craft and calculated risks have made him a standout star. By embracing diverse roles and staying connected to his fanbase, he’s become a more attractive choice for major studios.
Conclusion: The Star Who Shines Brighter
In the battle of Bridgerton alumni, Jonathan Bailey has clearly emerged as the bigger star in 2025. His commitment to versatility and thoughtful career choices have paid off, earning him starring roles in two of the year’s most anticipated films. While Regé-Jean Page remains a charismatic and talented actor, his trajectory has yet to reach the heights he once seemed destined for.
As Bailey prepares to dominate 2025 with Wicked: For Good and Jurassic World Rebirth, it’s clear that his strategy of balancing consistency with bold choices has made all the difference.
FAQs
- Why did Regé-Jean Page leave Bridgerton?
He left to pursue other opportunities in Hollywood, focusing on action-adventure films. - What are Jonathan Bailey’s major projects for 2025?
He stars in Wicked: For Good and Jurassic World Rebirth. - Why has Jonathan Bailey’s career outpaced Regé-Jean Page’s?
Bailey’s versatile choices and continued connection to Bridgerton fans have kept him in the spotlight. - Will Regé-Jean Page return to Bridgerton?
There’s no indication he will return, as his character’s arc was completed in Season 1. -
What makes Bailey’s approach to stardom unique?
His ability to balance blockbuster projects with prestigious roles sets him apart from his peers.
