The unexpected display of affection between the 40-year-old Marvel icon and the 37-year-old British actor quickly caught the attention of fans and media alike. The duo, who play leading roles in the upcoming action thriller, joined co-stars Mahershala Ali and Rupert Friend at the event.
Speaking to Attitude magazine about the kiss, Bailey explained his warm gesture with heartfelt sincerity: “I believe in being able to show love in all different ways. And if you can’t kiss your friends… life’s too short not to.”
This wasn’t the first time Johansson and Bailey showed affection at a public event. The pair also shared a quick kiss at the London world premiere on June 17, sparking conversations about their close bond and chemistry.
At the New York premiere, Johansson stunned onlookers in an elegant ivory gown adorned with miniature floral appliqués and a dramatic mermaid silhouette. Bailey sported a sophisticated ensemble consisting of a white scoop-neck t-shirt, a light gray cardigan, and tailored gray trousers. Johansson’s husband, comedian Colin Jost, was also present, with the couple appearing in coordinated outfits.
Bailey, who has been vocal about his identity and experiences in the entertainment industry, recently opened up to The Hollywood Reporter about being an openly gay actor in Hollywood. “There are moments where, yes, you have to be excellent to prove that you can do it. And it’s not like I haven’t felt that. There’s the weight of history,” he said.
He continued, “Any sort of sense of prejudice against sexuality is something to fight against, and what better way to do that than to go and play any kind of character.”
Jurassic World Rebirth, set to hit theaters on July 2, picks up five years after the events of Jurassic World Dominion. The film follows Zora, portrayed by Johansson, a covert operations specialist tasked with leading a high-stakes mission to recover the genetic material of the world’s three largest dinosaurs.
With an ensemble cast, high-octane action, and evolving storylines, Rebirth is poised to reignite the franchise with a fresh take, anchored by the chemistry and charisma of its lead actors, both on and off the screen.