Jonathan Bailey, widely recognized for his role in Bridgerton, is stepping into new territory as Fiyero Tigelaar in the highly awaited musical adaptation of Wicked. Starring alongside musical powerhouses Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, Bailey recently opened up about the intense preparation required for his singing role, highlighting the pressures of performing with two of the industry’s most celebrated vocalists.
Jonathan Bailey’s Rigorous Vocal Training
Bailey described his singing journey as both exhilarating and overwhelming. In an interview with ComicBook, he revealed that performing in front of Grande and Erivo left him feeling “completely disassociated.” While recounting his initial experiences, Bailey said,
“I’d say I completely disassociated. I vaguely remember bits of my toupee in the foreground and Jon Chu going like that (thumbs up) in the background.”
Acknowledging the challenge of performing alongside artists of such caliber, Bailey emphasized the importance of preparation. He committed to intense vocal training with Eric Vitro, a renowned vocal coach who worked with him over Zoom. The two eventually met in person months later, marking what Bailey described as one of many “incredible collaborations.”
Bailey humorously noted how he kept his voice in shape during breaks, sharing,
“I’d go back to my trailer and he had, you know… keep the voice in check.”
He also admitted feeling the “g-force of the sheer heft of their vocal prowess,” referencing the sheer power and skill that Grande and Erivo brought to their performances.
Behind-the-Scenes Moments Add Depth to Wicked’s Buzz
Wicked is not only drawing attention for its stunning visuals and star-studded cast but also for the dynamics among its cast members. Grande and Erivo have formed a close friendship during filming, which shines through in interviews and public appearances. Their camaraderie has become a talking point for fans, adding to the excitement around the film.
At the film’s Los Angeles premiere on November 9, 2024, Grande demonstrated her warm rapport with co-star and partner Ethan Slater by helping fix his bow tie, a moment that did not go unnoticed. Speaking with Entertainment Tonight, Grande described Slater as “adorable,” praising his performance and calling him an “amazing person.” She shared her happiness at seeing audiences get to know Slater, expressing that her “heart was happy.”
Wicked: Cast and Release Details
Directed by Jon Chu, Wicked features an ensemble cast, including Michelle Yeoh, Peter Dinklage, Bowen Yang, and many others. With its release slated for November 22, 2024, the film promises to deliver a blend of breathtaking performances, emotional depth, and exceptional musicality.
For more updates on Wicked, tune in to Vviptimes.