Click here to read the full article.
Jonathan Bailey is the latest star to exit a West End revival of “Sunday in the Park With George” after Ariana Grande bowed out last month.
The London show was set to be an opportunity for the “Wicked” stars to reunite
live on stage with Bailey playing painter George Seurat while Grande starred as Dot and Marie. They previously co-starred in the double feature franchise as Fiyero and Glinda respectively.
“After much consideration, I have decided to step back from Sunday in the Park with George,” Bailey said in a statement, in which he called “Ari” one of “my dearest friends.”
“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,” he continued. “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,” Bailey added.
Grande revealed she was set to drop out of the Stephen Sondheim musical last month as she took “a step back from visibility” following the wrap of her “Eternal Sunshine” tour in London.
Her decision came after the release of her latest music video, for “Petal,” prompted much discourse online about her physical health.
It is unclear at this stage whether Empire Street Productions, who are producing “Sunday in the Park with George” will vacate their slot at the Barbican Centre in London or re-cast the roles. The show is due to take place early next summer with Marianne Elliot directing.
Variety has contacted Empire Street Productions and Jonathan Bailey’s reps for comment.
