In an exclusive revelation, Bridgerton heartthrob Jonathan Bailey has offered a candid, five-word verdict on the show's notoriously saucy on-screen romps, describing the filming process as incredibly amusing behind the scenes.
The Reality Behind the Raunch
As the risque period drama prepares for its highly anticipated fourth season return at the end of this month, Bailey, who reprises his role as the dashing Anthony Bridgerton, has spilled intimate details about those much-discussed sex scenes. The 37-year-old actor admits that despite their glamorous appearance on screen, the actual filming environment is far from seductive.
"I know the sex scenes have been a hot topic," Bailey revealed, "but as a cast we get more excited by other scenes which require in-depth emotions."
Laughter on Set
The Oxfordshire-born star explained that with multiple cameras, dozens of crew members, and intimacy coordinators present, the atmosphere becomes rather comical. "It actually feels a bit silly and it's incredibly hard not to laugh," he confessed, highlighting the stark contrast between the finished product and the practical realities of production.
Despite having numerous on-screen romantic encounters throughout the series – including his first just three minutes into Bridgerton's debut episode – Bailey emphasises that meaningful storytelling always takes precedence over gratuitous content. "I'm not a fan of, 'Let's get our kit off because we have a scene to film,'" he stated firmly. "It's got to mean something."
Season Four Preview
The upcoming season, with its first part landing on Netflix on January 29, shifts focus to Anthony's younger brother Benedict, portrayed by Luke Thompson. The narrative follows Benedict's fairytale romance with maid Sophie, played by Yerin Ha, after a fateful meeting at a masquerade ball – a storyline reminiscent of Cinderella.
Bailey teased enthusiastic fans about the new instalment's pacing, revealing: "It isn't a slow start. I can't wait for fans to see the first episode – it really starts off with a bang."
Career Highlights and Personal Insights
Beyond Bridgerton's runaway success, Bailey has experienced significant career milestones, including following in the footsteps of Idris Elba and David Beckham to become People's Sexiest Man Alive last year – an honour he finds both "hilarious" and "very flattering."
His acclaimed performances in Hollywood blockbusters like Jurassic World Rebirth and the Wicked franchise have cemented his international fame. Although the second Wicked instalment, 'Wicked For Good', received mixed reviews and Oscar snubs, Bailey cherishes the experience, particularly the lifelong friendships formed with co-stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
In his personal life, the fiercely private actor, who revealed he was dating a "lovely man" in 2023, finds grounding through family connections. His six nieces and nephews provide cherished moments of normality away from the spotlight. "When I get to do what the world views as 'normal things' like read them a story or build Lego with them," Bailey shared affectionately, "I don't think they have any idea how happy they make me."
