Jonathan Bailey Exits West End Revival of Sunday in the Park with George

Jonathan Bailey has withdrawn from the upcoming West End revival of Sunday in the Park with George, weeks after his Wicked co-star Ariana Grande announced she would step back from public-facing work.

Bailey confirmed his decision in an Instagram Story on Sept. 1. He said Grande was one of his “dearest friends” and that his support for her was “unwavering.” He also praised director Marianne Elliott, describing her as an extraordinary collaborator and friend.

“After much consideration, I have decided to also step back from Sunday in the Park with George,” Bailey wrote.

The actor said the Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine musical had been a passion project and that he was grateful to have worked on it. He wished the production’s team well and said he looked forward to seeing the new actors take on the roles of George and Dot.

The official social media account for the production confirmed Bailey’s departure, saying casting discussions are underway and that the creative team is reshaping the production around a new company while maintaining the musical’s artistic vision.

The revival, directed by Elliott, is scheduled to open at London’s Barbican Centre in summer 2027. It was announced in January.

Grande announced in August that she would take a break from public-facing work after completing her Eternal Sunshine Tour, which concluded with a show at London’s O2 on Sept. 1. Her representatives said she wanted to take a “much-deserved break” following years of public scrutiny.

The production team expressed its support for Grande at the time and confirmed that the show would still open at the Barbican in summer 2027, with new casting to be announced.