The ‘Bridgerton’ star reassures fans that he’s not stepping away from acting in 2026 despite recent speculation.

Addressing the Rumors

November 10, 2025: Actor Jonathan Bailey, best known for his breakout role as Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton, has officially debunked recent rumors claiming he’s taking a year-long break from acting. The speculation began after a series of online posts suggested Bailey would be stepping away from the spotlight in 2026 — but the actor himself has now set the record straight.

“I’m Not Taking the Whole of 2026 Off”

In a new interview, Bailey clarified, “I’m not taking the whole of 2026 off. I’m just taking a little breather before jumping into my next project.” He went on to explain that after a busy few years filming Fellow Travelers, Wicked, and multiple other projects, he simply wanted a short pause to “reset and recharge.”

Fans React to the Update

Fans of the actor flooded social media with relief after hearing the news. Many expressed excitement about what’s next for Bailey’s career, praising his versatility and dedication. One fan wrote, “We’ll wait forever for Jonathan Bailey, but so glad he’s not disappearing for long!”

Upcoming Projects Still on Track

Bailey has a packed slate ahead, including his highly anticipated role in Wicked: Part Two, set for release in late 2026. Industry insiders say the actor is also in talks for a major streaming series and a West End stage return, proving his schedule is far from empty.

Taking Time to Breathe — Not Disappear

While Bailey admits he values balance after years of back-to-back work, he emphasized that his passion for acting remains as strong as ever. “Sometimes slowing down doesn’t mean stopping — it just means coming back stronger,” he said with a smile.