Jonathan Bailey may be known for delivering some of television’s most talked-about romantic moments, but behind the scenes, filming intimate scenes is far from glamorous — and often surprisingly funny. The 37-year-old actor, who returns as Anthony Bridgerton in the upcoming fourth season of Netflix’s hit period drama, has admitted that keeping a straight face during steamy scenes is one of the biggest challenges on set.
In a recent interview with Britain’s OK! magazine, Bailey revealed that the cast doesn’t view intimate scenes the way audiences do. While viewers may see polished romance and passion, the reality involves crowded sets, bright lights, cameras, crew members, and intimacy coordinators — a combination that makes it feel anything but seductive. “I know the sex scenes look glamorous,” he shared, “but on set, with tens of people watching and all the technical setup, it actually feels a bit silly. It’s incredibly hard not to laugh.”
Bailey added that despite the public fascination with Bridgerton’s steamy reputation, the cast themselves get more excited about emotionally intense scenes. “The sex scenes have been a hot topic,” he said, “but as a cast, we get more excited by scenes that require deeper emotions.” For him, character-driven storytelling matters far more than shock-value intimacy.
Although Bailey famously appeared in his first raunchy Bridgerton scene just minutes into the show’s debut episode, he insists he won’t film intimate moments unless they serve a real narrative purpose. “I’m not a fan of just getting our kit off because we have a scene to film,” he explained. “It’s got to mean something.” His stance reflects a growing industry push toward meaningful representation rather than gratuitous content.
Off-screen, Bailey has been enjoying a career high. Last year, People magazine named him Sexiest Man Alive, an accolade he describes as both flattering and amusing. “It’s hilarious — but also very flattering. Who wouldn’t be?” he joked.
Despite global fame, Bailey credits his six nieces and nephews for keeping him grounded. He shared that simple moments like reading bedtime stories or building Lego with them bring him pure happiness. “I don’t think they realize how happy they make me,” he said warmly.
While fans may imagine him as the ultimate romantic lead, Bailey recently confirmed he isn’t currently looking to have children of his own — choosing instead to focus on his career, family bonds, and the next chapter of Bridgerton’s beloved love stories.