Jonathan Bailey has been positively influenced by Ariana Grande’s friendship.

That’s why weeks after it was confirmed that her upcoming break from the public eye would prevent her from participating in the revival of Sunday in the Park with George, her Wicked costar announced he is also stepping away from the project.

“Ari is one of my dearest friends, and my support for her is unwavering,” Bailey wrote in a statement shared to his Instagram Stories on Sept. 1. “After much consideration, I have decided to step back from Sunday in the Park with George.

“This brilliant, introspective musical has been a real passion project for me, and I feel incredibly lucky to have shared in its journey with this team,” he added. “Among many things, the story explores the deep connection between George and Dot, a beautiful, devoted pairing, and I look forward to seeing what the two actors who will now take on these roles will create with it.”

He also emphasized that theater director Marianne Elliott—who was initially announced to helm the show—“is extraordinary and one of my longest collaborators and friends.”