How Bridgerton Explains Jonathan Bailey’s Absence in Season 4 Part One

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Jonathan Bailey‘s yellow brick road hasn’t led him back to Mayfair just yet. 

The actor from Wicked wasn’t in the first four episodes of Bridgerton season four, which were released on Netflix on January 29th. His character, Anthony Bridgerton, and his wife, Kate Sharma (played by Simone Ashley), don’t appear in those episodes.

The popular historical drama immediately explained why certain beloved characters weren’t present at the beginning of the new season, acknowledging how much viewers would miss them.

While Colin Bridgerton and his wife, Penelope, are busy with their new baby, the family’s housekeeper, Mrs. Wilson (Geraldine Alexander), lets the other servants know where the viscount and viscountess are.

She commented that the couple’s son is adorable, but she’s relieved she doesn’t have to care for him and listen to him cry. She added that she was especially glad the baby was born while the viscountess was in India.

To which a maid swiftly replies, “I cannot wait to meet the little heir when they return.”

As if things weren’t already a bit chaotic, I just learned from one of the staff that Gregory, the youngest Bridgerton brother (played by Will Tilston, you might recognize him!), is actually away at school. It seems like everyone’s scattered a bit, which adds another layer to the family dynamics, doesn’t it?

Honestly, things have felt a bit unbalanced lately. With Gregory away at Eton, it’s just… a lot of estrogen around here! We could really use some more male energy in the house, if I’m being truthful.

Gregory doesn’t show up until the fourth episode, and he’s noticeably changed – he’s grown facial hair and now prefers sophisticated snacks like Scotch eggs and tea over childish sweets.

The family is also adjusting to Anthony and Kate being away in India. Now, Benedict (Luke Thompson) is unexpectedly in charge of some of his brother’s responsibilities, and he’s been explaining this to the new housemaid, Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha).

He told me, “Your new job is right where I live.” Then he clarified, “Actually, I’m only there part of the time – I fill in for the viscount when he’s away.”

Good news! Anthony is likely to be back when the second part of the season is released on February 26th. Jonathan was also spotted in a preview of season four last year, hinting at his return as well.

The actor, who previously stated he wasn’t leaving Hollywood despite taking a break from public life, has confirmed he’s set aside a few weeks to film the fourth season.

As the older brother, I’ll always be there to support my siblings,” Jonathan shared with Good Morning America in 2023.

For more peeks into Bridgerton season four, read on.

While filming, Luke Thompson (who plays Benedict Bridgerton) and Claudia Jessie (Eloise Bridgerton) passed the time by playing a clapping game.

Nicola Coughlan, who plays Penelope Featherington, and her co-star Eloise (also played by Nicola Coughlan) seemed very friendly and happy together while filming, suggesting a close bond between the actresses.

While filming on a cold day, Hannah Dodd (who plays Francesca Bridgerton) had some fun making funny faces with Claudia.

Victor Alli, who plays John Stirling, revealed a humorous story from the set of Bridgerton season four.

Even when it rained during filming, the actors—including new cast members Yerin Ha as Sophie, Katie Leung as Lady Araminta Gun, Michelle Mao as Rosamund Li, and Isabella Wei as Posy Li—were prepared with umbrellas.

There were clearly no ruff moments behind the scenes.

The actors smiled for the cameras while staying warm on set, where they’re filming a love story about characters named Benedict and Sophie.

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2026-01-29 11:17