Jonathan Bailey, known for his role as Anthony in Bridgerton and set to appear as Fiyero in Wicked, has taken on the complex role of Shakespeare’s Richard II at London’s Bridge Theatre.

Bailey revealed that his portrayal of the 14th-century monarch drew inspiration from HBO's Succession, particularly in exploring themes of inherited power.

'I channelled many Roys,' Bailey said, referring to the dysfunctional Roy family from the series.

'Richard II explores inherited power in a very similar way to Succession but also expands on it and takes it to a new level.'

Directed by Nicholas Hytner, the modern-dress adaptation reimagines Richard II as a flamboyant, cocaine-snorting king, grappling with corruption and an inevitable downfall.

The play chronicles Richard’s usurpation by his cousin, Henry Bolingbroke, who later becomes Henry IV.

Bailey, 36, described the role as 'a feast of a play' and noted the relevance of Richard’s struggle for legitimacy in today’s context.

'It’s fascinating to explore a king who has a cast iron right to rule,' he added.

Critics have largely praised Bailey’s performance.

The Guardian noted that his 'words glitter with feeling' and highlighted how he 'singularly shines, his luminosity putting the others slightly in the shade.' The Evening Standard commended his stage presence, describing how he 'commands the stage and even allows a little camp to seep into the character.' The Independent awarded four stars, noting Bailey’s 'infectious spirit of camp naughtiness' and his playful interactions with the crown and courtiers.

However, not all reviews were unequivocally positive.

The Telegraph’s Dominic Cavendish gave the production three stars, suggesting that Bailey 'doesn't attain the greatness of Ben Whishaw and David Tennant' in the role.

Other performances also drew acclaim, particularly Michael Simkins as the Duke of York.

The Times described Simkins as 'stateliness personified,' while The New York Times highlighted his 'finger-wagging exasperation' that added levity to the political intrigue.

Bailey, who has a strong background in theatre, including performances in Othello at the National Theatre and King Lear alongside Ian McKellen, expressed excitement over attracting a younger, more diverse audience.

'It makes me so happy to inspire a new generation of young people coming to the theatre,' he said.

'If 10 people per show come and see Shakespeare for the first time, then I’m doing something right.'