Jonathan Bailey Steps Away from Acting to Champion Queer Causes with The Shameless Fund

Jonathan Bailey, the acclaimed star of “Bridgerton,” “Jurassic World Rebirth,” and “Wicked,” has made headlines with his recent announcement to take a break from acting in order to focus on queer charity work. Bailey, who has spent the past several years captivating audiences on stage and screen, confirmed his decision in a candid interview with British GQ, expressing both gratitude for his career and a deep sense of responsibility towards the queer community. “I've been working solidly for about three years now, which has been amazing and mind-blowing,” Bailey shared. “But with everything happening in the world right now, I'm going to stop acting for a bit next year and just focus on the Shameless Fund” .

Founded by Bailey in June 2024, The Shameless Fund was established to provide resources and support to LGBTQ+ charities across the United Kingdom and beyond. The organization’s mission is to “power up international, national and grassroots LGBTQ+ ” and to create a world free of discrimination and shame, where LGBTQIA+ people can live and love authentically . Through partnerships with global brands, The Shameless Fund raises funds and awareness for a diverse array of non-profit organizations.

Bailey’s worked with London eyewear brand Cubitts recently on something the exemplifies his commitment: The Loomis sunglasses, which are named after Bailey’s character in “Jurassic World Rebirth." The stinless steel frames boast a hexagonal shape, while the lenses are literally rose-colored. Proceeds from the eyewear benefit The Shameless Fund’s mission. This blend of creative enterprise and advocacy underscores Bailey’s multifaceted approach to fostering visibility and support for LGBTQ+ individuals .

Bailey’s announcement has elicited a strong response from fans and allies across social media, with many expressing appreciation for his selflessness and passion for advocacy. Comments such as “selfless king” and “he deserves a break but I will miss him” reflect both admiration for Bailey’s work and understanding of his decision to prioritize meaningful change over professional accolades . Industry colleagues have echoed this sentiment, recognizing Bailey’s leadership in leveraging his platform for social good.

Bailey will officially begin his acting hiatus following the press tour for the highly anticipated film “Wicked: For Good,” in which he reprises the role of Fiyero. The timing of his break coincides with a period of increased activism and public discourse around LGBTQ+ rights worldwide, amplifying the impact of his advocacy .

In his interview, Bailey reflected on the importance of authentic representation in media and the power of visibility for queer people. As an openly gay man, Bailey has often spoken about the challenges faced by queer actors in the entertainment industry, including issues of typecasting, discrimination, and the pressure to conceal aspects of their identity. His decision to step back from acting is rooted in a desire to create spaces where queer individuals can thrive without shame or fear.

Bailey’s advocacy extends beyond fundraising; it encompasses efforts to expand positive representation in media, support mental health initiatives, and champion legislative change. By centering his work on the needs of queer communities, Bailey hopes to inspire others to embrace their identities and participate in collective efforts for equity and justice.

Bailey’s hiatus occurs at a time when queer rights are facing both progress and setbacks worldwide. Recent legislative victories in some countries have been accompanied by increased anti-queer rhetoric and policies in others. The Shameless Fund aims to address these challenges by supporting grassroots organizations, amplifying marginalized voices, and fostering international solidarity.