Jonathan Bailey Becomes 2025’s Box Office Champion as He Prepares to Focus on LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Rising Star Reaches New Heights
Jonathan Bailey has firmly established himself as one of the entertainment industry’s most versatile and successful actors, earning the title of 2025’s highest-grossing actor. The 37-year-old was named as People’s Sexiest Man Alive in 2025 and continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his performances across stage and screen.
Jonathan Bailey is the highest-grossing actor of 2025. After gaining recognition through his role as Fiyero in 2024’s Wicked, Bailey is having an even bigger 2025, with prominent roles in two of Universal’s biggest blockbusters: Jurassic World Rebirth and Wicked: For Good. In total, Bailey’s films have earned $1.2 billion, and that number will only increase as Wicked 2 continues its theatrical run.
A Strategic Pause for Advocacy
Despite his remarkable success, Bailey has announced plans to step back from acting to focus on a cause close to his heart. The Wicked actor clarified what he meant when he previously shared that he planned to “stop acting for a bit next year,” explaining that he’d simply “stepped away” from roles in two upcoming movies in order to focus a bit more on his charity The Shameless Fund, which raises funds for non-profit organisations supporting the LGBTQ+ community by partnering with global brands.
In 2024, he founded the LGBTQ+ charity The Shameless Fund. The organisation has already gained visibility through creative partnerships, with Bailey designing pink-framed eyewear and collaborating with luxury brands to raise awareness and funds for LGBTQ+ causes.
Clarifying Career Plans
Following media speculation about his future, Bailey moved quickly to clarify his intentions. While the 37-year-old noted that it would be “correct” to assume he won’t appear in any new acting roles in 2026, he’ll be back to work at some point next year. “I mean as it stands at the moment, I’ll definitely be back to work next year,” Jonathan, who will still appear in the fourth season of Bridgerton debuting on Netflix in January, said.
Legacy and Future Prospects
His accolades include a Laurence Olivier Award and a Critics’ Choice Television Award as well as a nomination for a Primetime Emmy Award and four Screen Actors Guild Awards. Bailey’s remarkable journey from child performer to box office champion demonstrates the power of versatility and dedication in the entertainment industry.
For fans, Bailey’s temporary break from acting represents not an ending but a recommitment to values that extend beyond the screen. His decision to prioritise advocacy work whilst maintaining his connection to beloved projects like Bridgerton ensures his continued presence in popular culture whilst advancing meaningful social causes. As Bailey balances his artistic career with philanthropic leadership, he sets an example for using celebrity influence to create lasting positive change.