Jonathan Bailey is using the internet’s thirst for him to protect this group of LGBTQ+ people

Global heartthrob Jonathan Bailey has spoken more about his charitable work with The Shameless Fund, especially its work supporting elderly LGBTQ+ people.

The actor, 37, set up his charitable organisation last year to “power up international, national and grassroots LGBTQ+ [not-for-profit organisations].”

So far the Fund has partnered with companies like Cubitts and Loewe to raise money for LGBTQ+ causes. Now, the actor has shed more light on some of the groups he’s passionate about supporting.

Talking to Time as he was recognised as part of the 2025 Time100 Next, Bailey said he was “activated” to work on The Fund after Fellow Travellers.

In the series Bailey starred as Tim Laughlin who falls in love with Hawkins Fuller (Matt Bomer). Their relationship then plays out through McCarthyism, the 70s and the AIDs crisis. The series also acts as a tribute to the generations of queer people who have fought for LGBTQ+ rights.

“I just felt so strongly about the elder members of the community, many of whom are much more likely to be single, less likely to have children, and they’re going into care homes and [dealing with] homophobia. Having to go back in the closet,” an emotional Bailey told Time.

The Wicked actor then shared: “The first five grants we’ve given, two are going to charities that look after elderly LGBTQ+ members.” Bailey then said, “We have to look after them because they fought so hard.”

The Bridgerton star also saw the need to support the LGBTQ+ community given “the stripping back of rights in an incredibly terrifying and aversive way,” adding, “visibility is really important at this moment.”

Continuing, he said: “So much energy is consumed and a lot of pain when you grow up feeling like there’s something you’re going to have to address at some point or not, or try and mask, that could potentially end up with you not having a family or friends. That’s the reality for a lot of people.”

Bailey also told Time: “I’m focusing on supporting as many of the vulnerable LGBTQ+ people as best I can.” He went on to say: “Any act of kindness right now is a powerful thing.” He’s also said he’s only partnering with companies who will donate to the fund.

The actor also clarified earlier reports he was taking a break from acting, indicating both parts of his work matter to him still. “The fantasy is to continue to work and be inspired by people along the way,” he said.

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