LONDON – Jonathan Bailey has addressed the buzz surrounding his affectionate red carpet moments with co-star Scarlett Johansson during the premieres of “Jurassic World Rebirth.” The actor, known for his role in “Bridgerton,” shared his perspective with “Entertainment Tonight” on Monday, emphasizing the importance of expressing love in various forms.
Immediate Impact
Bailey, 37, explained that his gestures towards Johansson, 40, stem from a genuine friendship. “I believe in being able to show love in all different ways,” he stated, underscoring the platonic nature of their interactions. The red carpet kisses quickly became a topic of social media discussion, with images of the duo warmly greeting each other making headlines last week.
“Life’s too short,” Bailey remarked, “And if you can’t kiss your friends … life’s too short not to.”
Key Details Emerge
The friendly exchanges first caught public attention at the film’s London premiere. Johansson, married to comedian Colin Jost, appeared unfazed by the affectionate gestures. The actress donned a stunning pink Vivienne Westwood gown, complementing Bailey’s brown suit.
The pair continued their tradition at the New York City premiere, where Johansson opted for an elegant ivory gown. This time, Jost was present, coordinating with his wife in a white suit, further dispelling any rumors of discomfort or controversy.
Industry Response
Social media users have largely responded with humor and support. One user quipped, “This is a pending ‘SNL’ skit,” while another commented, “Stop making this more than it is. Jonathan is the gay best friend every girl wants.”
Johansson and Jost have been married since October 2020 and share a 3-year-old son named Cosmo. Jost also plays a paternal role to Johansson’s daughter, Rose, 10, from her previous marriage to Romain Dauriac.
Background Context
Bailey’s openness about his sexuality adds context to his actions. The actor publicly came out as gay in 2018, after initially grappling with his identity. “I thought that in order to be happy, I needed to be straight,” he revealed to GQ in 2022. His decision to embrace his true self has allowed him to live more authentically both personally and professionally.
Bailey is known to keep his personal life private, though he has mentioned dating a “lovely man” in past interviews. His comfort in expressing affection publicly aligns with his journey towards self-acceptance.
What Comes Next
As the promotional tour for “Jurassic World Rebirth” continues, Bailey and Johansson’s camaraderie is likely to remain a focal point. Their interactions highlight a broader conversation about expressions of friendship and the evolving norms of public affection.
In the entertainment industry, where personal lives often become public spectacles, Bailey’s candid approach offers a refreshing perspective. As audiences await the film’s release, the actor’s message of love and authenticity resonates beyond the red carpet.
