Jonathan Bailey Proves Gay Actors Are Box Office Gold with Wicked and Jurassic World

by

Over the last few years, there have been numerous discussions about the importance of representation in media, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. This representation encompasses not only the telling of genuine queer narratives but also observing queer performers take on significant roles. With Jonathan Bailey, an openly gay actor, having starred in both “Wicked” and “Jurassic World Dominion”, shouldn’t we put an end to the assumption that actors from the LGBTQ+ community aren’t financially viable?

Through his captivating portrayal in “Bridgerton” (available on Netflix), the actor garnered a large fanbase, paving the way for numerous successful TV and film ventures. Now affectionately known as the internet’s heartthrob, Bailey has attracted admiration from fans across genders. Despite his openness about his sexuality, this hasn’t dampened his popularity one bit, and he may even have drawn audiences to “Jurassic World: Dominion,” which was a box office smash. I hope that his continued success will help alleviate apprehensions about giving significant roles in major blockbusters to LGBTQ+ actors.

Hollywood Usually Sees Queer Actors/Stories As A Gamble

Historically, Hollywood has not always been open or supportive towards queer narratives and actors. For instance, Nathan Lane, an actor who played LGBTQ+ characters in shows like “The Birdcage,” felt apprehensive about coming out publicly. Many other actors have spoken of similar experiences, where they were dissuaded from openly acknowledging their sexuality by their management, out of concern that it might damage their careers.

In recent times, there has been a significant shift, as prominent figures in the queer community such as Ian McKellen urge actors to openly express their true selves. Although it’s likely that many actors are still keeping their sexuality private, I can’t help but ponder if Bailey’s career is playing a role in influencing executives and actors to become more accepting.

Jonathan Bailey Has Played A Romantic Lead And An Action Star

The announcement that Jonathan Bailey would portray Fiyero in “Wicked” appeared to be a spot-on choice, given his background in musical theater, such as his lead role in “Company” on the West End. His captivating performance in the film adaptation of a musical, highlighted by the hit number “Dancing Through Life,” further cemented this belief. It seems that director Jon M. Chu and the team behind the scenes had a keen eye for casting, even incorporating a few extra shots of Bailey’s physique. Despite being openly gay, Bailey convincingly played the romantic interest of both Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba and Ariana Grande’s Glinda throughout the film.

Following the release, his latest film titled “Jurassic World Rebirth” has been making waves online. As soon as the trailers hit social media, there was an outpouring of comments about the eye-catching spectacles Bailey wore in the movie, which some referred to as “provocative.” The internet has been buzzing with admiration for the actor, who gained viral fame for sharing a kiss with Scarlett Johansson at press events. Interestingly enough, Dr. Henry Loomis’ sexuality was not explicitly shown in the film, but much like in “Wicked,” Bailey takes center stage in this dino-focused production. Moreover, he performed several adrenaline-pumping action sequences and stunts throughout the movie.

Read More

2025-07-11 01:07