Bailee Madison has grown up in front of the camera, evolving from a child star into a multifaceted artist who is making waves in both acting and music. As she continues to navigate the complex world of Hollywood, Madison remains grounded in her values and committed to staying true to herself. Her latest projects, including her role in Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin and her budding music career, showcase her versatility and dedication to her craft.
Madison’s journey began at a young age when she first captivated audiences in Bridge to Terabithia. Even then, she demonstrated a remarkable maturity and a deep understanding of her emotions, which she credits to her faith and the guidance of her family. In a 2010 video for the nonprofit series I Am Second, a 10-year-old Madison shared how her faith in God had shaped her early career. “Mom always told me when I was done with [Terabithia], you have to stay humble, Bailee,” she recalls. Her mother’s words have continued to resonate with her throughout her life, helping her maintain a sense of humility despite her success.
Now, as a young adult, Madison is embracing new challenges and opportunities. In late 2021, she sat down on the set of Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin, reflecting on how far she has come since those early days. The transition from child star to leading actress is not always smooth, but Madison has handled it with grace and determination. Her portrayal of Imogen in the Pretty Little Liars spinoff has earned her critical acclaim and allowed her to explore deeper, more complex characters.
Madison’s ability to connect with audiences has not gone unnoticed. Her work in Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin has solidified her reputation as a talented and versatile actress. The show, which follows a new generation of Liars dealing with the consequences of their parents’ sins, has allowed Madison to showcase her range and emotional depth. Her character, Imogen, is navigating the challenges of high school while dealing with the trauma of losing her mother and being stalked by a mysterious figure. Madison’s portrayal of Imogen is both powerful and relatable, drawing viewers into the intense world of the series.
But Madison’s talents extend beyond acting. She has recently ventured into the world of music, a passion she has long harbored. With the support of her boyfriend, British musician Blake Richardson of the band New Hope Club, Madison has begun to explore her musical side. The couple recently celebrated their fifth anniversary and have moved into a home together, complete with a music studio where they collaborate on new projects.
Madison’s entry into the music world is marked by her debut single, “Kinda Fun,” a lighthearted pop song that she co-wrote with Richardson. The song is a reflection of Madison’s approach to life—enjoying the moment and not taking things too seriously. It was written during a period of uncertainty, as Madison grappled with the impact of the SAG strikes and the pressures of balancing her acting career with her desire to create music. Richardson encouraged her to embrace the process, leading to the creation of “Kinda Fun.”
“Now it’s so fun because we’re writing together,” Madison says of their creative partnership. “We get to just wake up and have coffee and sit outside and then go into the studio and write songs, and it’s really special … a bonding experience.” While Madison is excited about her music, she doesn’t feel the need to rush into releasing more. She’s content to let the creative process unfold naturally, focusing on making music that feels authentic to her.
Madison’s relationship with Richardson has been a source of stability and inspiration. They first connected through Instagram, where Madison became a fan of Richardson’s work before they met in person. Their relationship began long distance, with the couple relying on FaceTime to stay connected. Despite the challenges, they’ve built a strong bond based on mutual respect and a shared love of music.
As she reflects on their journey together, Madison is proud of how they’ve navigated the ups and downs of their twenties. “I’m proud of our 19-year-old selves for surviving distance and also trying to navigate and grow in your twenties,” she says. Their relationship has evolved alongside their individual growth, with both Madison and Richardson continuing to support each other’s dreams and ambitions.
Madison’s ability to balance her personal and professional life is a testament to her resilience and self-awareness. She acknowledges that growing up in the public eye hasn’t always been easy, but she’s learned to trust her instincts and block out the noise that doesn’t serve her. “I feel like the only way that you can actually [achieve] the dream that you want is if you are just listening to your moral compass or your heart compass or your mind and betting on that,” she says.
Her time on Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin has also reinforced her confidence in her abilities. Madison feels more empowered than ever, honoring her voice and opinion in a way that she hadn’t before. The experience has deepened her sense of self and strengthened her relationships with her fellow cast members, including Maia Reficco, Chandler Kinney, Malia Pyles, Zaria, and Mallory Bechtel. The bond they share on and off set has made the show even more meaningful for Madison, who values the sisterhood and womanhood she’s found in this chapter of her life.
Looking ahead, Madison is excited about the possibilities that lie before her. She sees herself as a work in progress, constantly learning and growing as she navigates the complexities of adulthood. As she approaches her 25th birthday, Madison is embracing the fire that’s been relit within her, fueled by her passion for storytelling, whether through acting or music.
Bailee Madison’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and staying true to one’s values. As she continues to evolve as an artist and individual, Madison is charting her own path, guided by the same moral compass that has been with her since she was a little girl with big dreams. Whether on screen or in the recording studio, Madison is determined to make her mark on the world, one project at a time.