Jonathan Bailey Opens Up About Love Privacy and His Path to Authenticity
Actor Jonathan Bailey prefers to maintain privacy regarding his romantic relationships.
Bailey rose to prominence following the December 2020 debut of Bridgerton on Netflix, which introduced audiences to his portrayal of Anthony Bridgerton. He took center stage in the show's second season, released in March 2022, where his character's romantic journey drove the narrative.
With his increasing public profile, curiosity regarding Bailey's romantic life grew. At first, he chose not to publicly disclose his identity as a gay man.
He confessed to Attitude magazine in December 2020 that “the most cautious advice I received regarding openly discussing my sexuality today came from gay professionals in the industry,” disclosing that he had been advised against a public coming out. He elaborated, “At that point, I was likely still understanding my own sexuality; I hadn't intentionally concealed it. ... Yet, I’ve always been candid about it. It was simply that the situation never required me to speak on it.”
Nevertheless, Bailey has subsequently chosen to address his sexuality — and consequently, his romantic relationships — entirely on his own terms. Continue reading to discover his most candid statements:
Concealing His Orientation
In the GQ interview, Bailey revealed, “I believed that happiness necessitated me being heterosexual.” He continued, “I arrived at a moment where I decided, I’m done with this; I would much rather publicly hold my boyfriend’s hand or use my own photo on Tinder without such apprehension, than prioritize a role.”
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His Perspective on Romance
He communicated to Town & Country in April 2022, “I hold faith in love and romance, regardless of their expression.” He added, “I feel it’s essential for everyone to maintain belief. That serves as the core conviction that sustains us.”
Maintaining Personal Privacy
He conveyed to the Evening Standard, “For me, safeguarding my private life is absolutely paramount.” He continued, “I question whether I could speak so confidently on other issues if I perceived my entire existence as public domain.”
Others Recognized His Orientation Before He Did
In a December 2024 British Vogue interview, Bailey recounted, “I believe others discerned my sexuality prior to my own awareness,” elaborating on an instance where a teacher directed a disparaging remark at him publicly. “I was struggling with my assignments and he remarked, ‘Indeed, if you weren’t so preoccupied being a ‘fairy,’ you’d comprehend.’”
Despite Bailey inquiring with friends during a sleepover if any of them were gay, seeking common understanding, he subsequently pursued a relationship with a woman in his early twenties.
He expressed to the publication, “The binary perception, where one is seen as exclusively one thing or another, is quite intriguing.” He clarified, “That’s how I viewed it back then, but the reality holds far more complexity. My involvement in that particular relationship did not feel like I was concealing myself. She is still among my closest friends.”
He Appreciates Public Displays of Affection Like Hand-Holding
While he mentioned he was “not disclosing” details about his present relationship, Bailey disclosed that he has “consistently felt comfortable holding hands in romantic partnerships.”
He remembered for British Vogue in December 2024, “I once had a partner who was unaccustomed to public hand-holding.” He added, “We encountered verbal abuse in London. However, such negative reactions are now overshadowed by the positive responses one receives.”
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He Aspires to Fatherhood in the Future
He clarified to British Vogue in December 2024, “My current way of life isn’t conducive to raising children.” He elaborated, “I aim to ensure I’ll be actively involved. I'm exploring literature on adoption. I could potentially co-parent with a woman, but I envision it happening with a man.”
He Is Comfortable With Affectionate Kisses Among Friends
At the premiere of Jurassic World Rebirth, Bailey shared a kiss with his co-star Scarlett Johansson, sparking discussion given her marriage to Colin Jost.
Bailey stated to Entertainment Tonight in June 2025, “I advocate for the expression of affection through various means.” He further commented, “And if one cannot kiss their friends … life is too brief to refrain.”
His Ideal Evening Out
He conveyed in his People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” feature in November 2025, “My preferences truly vary. I enjoy strolls, and I’m fond of dining out, theater, movies.” He continued, “It hinges on the stage of the relationship. For instance, if it’s an established relationship, then something like building with Lego (as we call it in Britain, singularly) and pizza. Some of my most enjoyable dates have involved Lego.”
Essential Elements in His Relationships
During his People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” interview in November 2025, he disclosed, “Effective communication — and clarity.” He stressed, “Openness is utterly, utterly, utterly crucial. Moreover, truly backing, genuinely encouraging, and observing someone’s success should be genuinely stimulating.”
Bailey disclosed that his non-negotiable relationship “red flags” were “the inverse of those” qualities.
He quipped, “Poor communication, a deficit of transparency. Dislikes Lego.” He added playfully, “In truth, I’ll only date someone fluent in three languages. Indeed, and possessing seven academic degrees and a doctorate. Otherwise, they simply wouldn’t meet the standard.”
His Initial Celebrity Admiration
In his November 2025 People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” interview, he stated, “I would mention Prince Eric [from The Little Mermaid], but also Trini from Power Rangers.” He recounted, “I recall inadvertently tossing two gardening implements over a fence while attempting to emulate her.”
