Jonathan Bailey, the actor who plays Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s hit show Bridgerton, recently said the series did not teach him anything about real-life romance. He called the show a fantasy and explained that true love is more grounded and real.
Bailey shared his thoughts during an interview on Amelia Dimoldenberg’s Chicken Shop Date podcast while promoting his new movie Jurassic World Rebirth. His comments surprised many fans who see Bridgerton as a romantic guide.
Jonathan Bailey’s Thoughts on Romance
When asked if playing a romantic lead in Bridgerton made him better at love, Bailey laughed and said:
“No! It was a fantasy, isn’t it? Romance is grounded and real.”
He explained that while Bridgerton is fun to watch, it does not reflect how real relationships work. The show is set in a glamorous, dramatic world, but Bailey believes true romance is different.
Bailey also joked about Dimoldenberg joining the Bridgerton universe, saying:
“I can imagine you in Bridgerton. [Your character would be] really uptight. She’d be a sort of a potential spinster.”
Bridgerton Is a Fantasy, Not a Love Guide
Bridgerton is known for its grand love stories, fancy balls, and dramatic relationships. But Bailey insists the show is pure entertainment, not a lesson in love.
In an earlier interview with Entertainment Weekly, he talked about how romance as a genre has changed. He said:
“I’ve grown up with the idea of romance as a genre. It’s never been a genre that’s been given the respect and the international platform that Bridgerton has.”
He added that romance stories often focus on deep themes like sexuality, intimacy, and identity, which make them meaningful. But he still sees Bridgerton as a fantasy rather than a real-life love guide.
What’s Next for Jonathan Bailey?
Bailey is busy with big projects this year. He stars in Jurassic World Rebirth alongside Scarlett Johansson and will return as Fiyero in Wicked: For Good, coming this fall.
He also confirmed he will appear in Bridgerton Season 4, though his role might be smaller. He told Seth Meyers:
“There’s gonna be lots of space for new people to come in… I’ll always pop back and say hello.”
Bailey has been open about his career and personal life. He came out as gay in 2018 and has spoken about the challenges he faced growing up. He once shared that a teacher called him a hurtful name in school, which made him more private about his identity for a while.
Fans React to Bailey’s Comments
Some fans agreed with Bailey, saying Bridgerton is just a fun escape. Others were surprised, thinking the show could inspire real romance.
One fan wrote online:
“He’s right! Bridgerton is like a fairy tale. Real love is messier but more meaningful.”
Another said:
“I love the drama, but I never thought it was realistic. It’s just great TV.”
Bailey’s Real-Life Views on Love
While Bailey does not take love lessons from Bridgerton, he has talked about his own views on relationships. In a past interview, he mentioned he is open to co-parenting and has read books on adoption.
He also joked about his dating life on Chicken Shop Date, saying:
“I’m available, but there’s like a genetic predisposition.”
This was a lighthearted reference to his sexuality, showing he keeps a sense of humor about his personal life.
Why Bridgerton’s Romance Feels Unreal
Bridgerton is famous for its over-the-top romantic moments—passionate glances, grand gestures, and intense drama. But real relationships often involve communication, compromise, and everyday moments, which are less flashy but more important.
Bailey’s comments remind fans that while the show is entertaining, it should not be seen as a real-life love manual.
What’s Coming in Bridgerton Season 4?
Season 4 will focus on Benedict Bridgerton’s love story with Sophie Beckett. Bailey hinted that he filmed a wedding scene, possibly for this storyline.
He told The Hollywood Reporter:
“People know that people get married in Bridgerton—that’s not a spoiler, right?”
The show continues to be a massive hit, with Season 3 recently nominated for SAG Awards.
Final Thoughts
Jonathan Bailey’s honesty about Bridgerton’s fantasy romance is refreshing. While the show is a global sensation, he reminds fans that real love is different—and that’s okay.
Also read: Scarlett Johansson Kisses Jonathan Bailey Again at Jurassic World Premiere While Colin Jost Watches
With exciting projects like Jurassic World Rebirth and Wicked: For Good, Bailey’s career keeps growing. And fans can still look forward to seeing him in future Bridgerton seasons, even if he’s not taking love advice from the show.
