'I felt scared and alone': Gay icon Jonathan Bailey opens up about brutal school bullying over his sexuality

Speaking to Sky News, Bailey said, "I felt scared and I felt alone and I felt entirely limited at various points in my life."

Charitable organisation Just Like Us, which is patronised by Bailey, has found in a survey of thousands of UK pupils, LGBT participants aged 11 to 18 were twice as likely to suffer anxiety, depression and be bullied.

"I experienced all of that," Bailey said and added, "It became clear quite early on that something that was very specific and clear to me about who I was, it wasn't safe and it wasn't celebrated."

Days ago, Bailey talked about love and romance when giving an interview to People.

Bailey shared what would be a "perfect date" for him and revealed the qualities he looks for in his partner.

"I love a walk, I do love dinner, theater, films," Bailey said and added, "You know, if it’s like date 100, then like Legos, although we Brits say it singular ‘Lego,’ and pizza," he said. "Some of my best dates have been Lego dates."

When asked about the qualities he looks for in his partner, the 'Bridgerton' actor said, "Communication — and being clear. Transparency is absolutely utmost, utmost, utmost," he said. "And really supporting, really cheerleading and watching someone thrive, should be a real turn-on."

Which qualities are the deal-breakers? Bailey lists "bad communication, lack of transparency," and someone who doesn't like Lego.

The 37-year-old, who is also known to play Prince Fiyero in Wicked, is the first openly gay man to enter the club of the Sexist Man Alive 2025.

"It's a huge honor. Obviously I’m incredibly flattered. And it’s completely absurd. (Laughs) It’s been a secret, so I’m quite excited for some friends and family to find out," Bailey said speaking to People on receiving the title.

He is openly gay, and has spoken about authenticity, representation, and the challenges for gay actors in the industry.

He founded The Shameless Fund in 2024, a charity aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ causes (especially given his observation that only a tiny fraction of funds in the UK go to LGBTQ+ groups).

He enjoys outdoor activities like cycling, paddle boarding, mountaineering showing a connection to physical fitness and wellness off-screen.

He’s had a strong theatre background: e.g., starring in the gender-swapped revival of Company (West End, 2018) which earned him the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical (2019).

On screen, his breakout international profile came with Bridgerton (as Viscount Anthony) which gave him global recognition.