Why Does Anthony Look So Different in Bridgerton Season 2? Blame Jonathan Bailey's Hotness
Here's how Anthony Bridgerton became the undisputed heartthrob of the Bridgerton universe.
As fans eagerly await news on Bridgerton Season 3, many have been re-watching the first two seasons of the much-adored Netflix series. A standout observation most fans are making in the process is the remarkable transformation of Anthony Bridgerton, portrayed by Jonathan Bailey, across the seasons. A side-by-side comparison of his appearances reveals a striking difference.
In Season 1, Anthony, the eldest Bridgerton, sported mini mutton chops and tousled hair that lent him a somewhat wild appearance. However, in Season 2, he shed the sideburns and opted for a more refined haircut that beautifully framed his face. The overall aesthetic shift was noticeable—Anthony's look became more polished and less rugged, with enhanced makeup and neater eyebrows. This transformation escalated his appeal, turning Season 2 Anthony into an internet sensation.
'S1 Anthony really didn’t do anything for me,' a fan commented. 'It’s clear now that the sideburns and hairstyle were the issue for me, as S2 Anthony is an entirely different story.'
So, why this radical transformation? And why was Jonathan Bailey's charm not fully showcased from the onset? Fans speculate that this approach was deliberate, designed to prevent distraction from the main character of Season 1, Simon Basset, played by Regé-Jean Page.
'I think they purposely gave him those mutton chops in S1 or else he would be waayyy too hot and might shift the attention from the lead Simon,' another fan theorised on Reddit.
This theory definitely sounds legit. In Season 1, Anthony played a supporting role as Daphne's older brother. Thus, Jonathan Bailey's natural appeal was downplayed by excessive hair. However, in Season 2, as Anthony assumed the role of the main love interest, it was time for him to shine. Consequently, the styling department went all out to accentuate Bailey's attractiveness.
Furthermore, Bailey's acting changed. Anthony's intense gazes, electric allure, and annoying behaviour that emerged with the introduction of Kate Sharma left many fans utterly captivated.
Anthony's transformation underscores a strategic move by the Bridgerton creators. By masking the natural allure of the cast with various tricks, like an abundance of facial hair, until their moment in the spotlight arrives, they keep audiences intrigued. This tactic suggests we can anticipate even more dramatic transformations in upcoming seasons.