Since the premiere of Netflix’s Bridgerton, Jonathan Bailey has become best known among Regency-era drama aficionados as the dashing Viscount Anthony. Bailey is now prepared to dig into his musical side, as he has officially joined the cast of Wicked, a two-part big screen adaptation of the same-titled stage masterpiece.
Variety says that the star of Broadchurch will play Fiyero in prequels to The Wizard of Oz, along with Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba.
Wicked director Jon M. Chu confirmed Bailey’s casting on Twitter, writing, «He’s perfect, they’re perfect.» They’d be fantastic together. Born to be immortal. I’m too excited to pretend that this hasn’t happened. We’ve got a Fiyero. »
The films are based on the iconic Wicked musical, which focuses on the witches of the Land of Oz and tells the narrative of how Elphaba (Erivo) became the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda (Grande) became the Good Witch. The film versions are set to be released around Christmas in 2024 and 2025.
He’s perfect, they’re perfect. They’d be perfect together. Born to be forever….. I am too excited to pretend this hasn’t been happening. We have a Fiyero!!!! #JonathanBailey #Wicked https://t.co/meT51cGqDe
— Jon M. Chu (@jonmchu) September 21, 2022
«We decided to offer ourselves a broader canvas and film not one, but two Wicked movies,» director Chu previously stated in a statement. «With additional room, we can tell the Wicked narrative as it was meant to be told while adding even more depth and surprise to these beloved characters’ adventures.»
Following Bailey’s casting announcement, many people took to social media to express their approval. «There is no better option.» He’s going to be wonderful,» one ecstatic admirer said, while another joked, «Now I have to watch the Wicked movies when they come out because of Jonathan Bailey.» Producers, you’ve got me in a bind. «