Jonathan Bailey Drops Out of Musical After Ariana Grande’s Exit
Casting discussions are underway after the two Wicked stars exited the Stephen Sondheim revival, and producers say new production details will follow.
- Jonathan Bailey has withdrawn from the West End revival of Sunday in the Park with George, following his co-star Ariana Grande's departure. The production was scheduled for a summer 2027 opening at London's Barbican Centre.
- Grande withdrew last month to take "a step back from visibility" following her Eternal Sunshine tour's conclusion. Her decision followed intense online discourse regarding her health after releasing the music video "Petal."
- In a statement, Bailey expressed unwavering support for his "dearest friend," calling the decision difficult. The 38-year-old actor emphasized his commitment to Grande while praising director Marianne Elliott and the production's artistic vision.
- Empire Street Productions confirmed casting discussions are "actively under way," reshaping the production around a new company. The team will preserve the artistic integrity of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's musical while announcing further details in due course.
- Producers remain committed to the 2027 opening despite repeated delays to ticket sales. Further casting announcements will come as the production team navigates finding replacements for both lead roles.
21 Articles
21 Articles
Jonathan Bailey Exits Sunday in the Park Weeks After Ariana Grande
Jonathan Bailey has been changed for good by Ariana Grande’s friendship. That’s why weeks after it was confirmed that her forthcoming step back from the public eye would mean she wouldn’t be...
Jonathan Bailey Drops Out of ‘Sunday in the Park With George’ Following Ariana Grande’s Exit
Jonathan Bailey has dropped out of the West End revival of Sunday in the Park With George following Ariana Grande‘s exit from the cast. Related Ariana Grande Taking a Break After Tour Amid Ongoing Public Scrutiny Ariana Grande Addresses Post-Tour Break Onstage: ‘No…
Jonathan Bailey Joins Ariana Grande in Exiting West End Musical: ‘My Support for Her Is Unwavering’
Jonathan Bailey has bowed out of the West End revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park With George after his Wicked costar Ariana Grande’s exit. “Ari is one of my dearest friends, and my support for her is unwavering. [Director] Marianne [Elliott] is extraordinary and one of my longest collaborators and friends,” Bailey, 38, […]
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