JONATHAN BAILEY QUITS WEST END SHOW IN SUPPORT OF DEAR FRIEND ARIANA GRANDE

Ariana Grande’s Wicked co-star has followed her by stepping away from the production of an upcoming West End musical, leaving it scrambling for two replacement leads.

Jonathan Bailey, 38, has backed out of Sunday in the Park with George after the singer quit last month.

He said on Instagram: ‘Ari is one of my dearest friends, and my support for her is unwavering. Marianne is extraordinary and one of my longest collaborators and friends.

‘After much consideration, I have decided to step back from Sunday in the Park with George.

Jonathan added: ‘This brilliant, introspective musical has been a real passion project for me, and I feel incredibly lucky to have shared in its journey with this team.

‘Among many things, the story explores the deep connection between George and Dot, a beautiful, devoted pairing, and I so look forward to seeing what the two actors who will now take on these roles will create with it.

‘I wish the very best to the entire company. I will be cheering them on as they continue with this production.’

A spokesperson from the show said: ‘Following Ariana Grande’s withdrawal, Jonathan Bailey has informed the producers that he has also decided to step back from Sunday in the Park with George.

‘Work on the production continues.

‘Casting discussions are actively under way, and the creative team is reshaping the production around a new company while preserving the ambition and artistic integrity of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s musical.

‘Further casting and production details will be announced in due course.’

The decision comes one month after Ariana shared that she would be quitting the production after taking a ‘step back’ from public life.

A representative said: ‘Ariana will be taking a step back from visibility after she completes the Eternal Sunshine Tour.

‘She looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny.

‘This tour has been a beautiful experience for her. She loves her fans and has loved every minute of this tour so much.’

2026-09-01T17:10:24Z