Jonathan Bailey, known for his role in the hit series “Bridgerton,” takes on a significantly different character in Showtime’s “Fellow Travelers.” This historical drama, set during the McCarthy era in the 1950s, presents an epic love story spanning several decades of American history. In the series, Bailey portrays Tim Laughlin, a young, idealistic character deeply rooted in his religious faith. He stars opposite Matt Bomer, who plays Hawkins Fuller, a charismatic figure working in politics. Their story unfolds against a backdrop marked by the McCarthy era’s anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments, the Vietnam War, the drug-fuelled hedonism of the 1970s, and the AIDS crisis of the 1980s.
Bailey’s role in “Fellow Travelers” is a significant departure from his previous work, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The show explores the complexities of a forbidden romance between two very different men. Fuller, an influential political staffer, and Laughlin, an aspiring politico, meet at a Washington fundraiser and are instantly drawn to each other. However, their relationship develops under the threatening cloud of Senator Joseph McCarthy’s campaign against ‘subversives and sexual deviants,’ which puts their lives and careers at risk.
In an interview, Bailey highlighted the importance of portraying the depth and intimacy of the characters’ relationship, including the sexual dynamics. He stressed the significance of showcasing the nuances and personal aspects of queer relationships, often overlooked or misrepresented in mainstream media. Bailey pointed out how the series explores the roles within a gay relationship, discussing aspects like submission and dominance and how they contribute to the characters’ dynamics. This aspect of the show, according to Bailey, is essential in presenting an honest and hearty examination of queer relationships, which he believes has been long overdue.
“The Challenges and Triumphs of Bringing ‘Fellow Travelers’ to Life”
The series’ creator and executive producer, Ron Nyswaner, expressed the compelling nature of the characters’ attraction, despite their differing worldviews. He noted the powerful draw between them and the high-stakes environment they navigate, where their relationship could lead to their undoing. This tension, Nyswaner points out, adds a layer of complexity and depth to the narrative.
An interesting plot twist in “Fellow Travelers” is Fuller’s decision to marry his friend Lucy, played by Allison Williams, to maintain his cover. This subplot creates a complex triangle and raises questions about what the characters are willing to sacrifice and the prices they might have to pay for their desires and secrets.
Nyswaner also shared the challenges faced during the production, particularly with the non-linear narrative that spans from the McCarthy era to the AIDS crisis of the 1980s. Keeping the storyline and character arcs clear across different decades was a significant task for the crew, highlighting the intricate nature of the series’ storytelling.
“Fellow Travelers” is not just a love story; it is a journey through significant historical events, seen through the lens of a relationship that defies the norms of its time. Bailey’s portrayal of Tim Laughlin and his chemistry with Bomer’s Hawkins Fuller bring to life a narrative that is both intimate and expansive, offering viewers a unique glimpse into a turbulent and transformative period in American history.
