Jonathan Bailey, known for his roles in “Wicked” and “Bridgerton,” has been crowned People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2025. The announcement was made on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” succeeding John Krasinski as the 2024 titleholder.
Expressing his gratitude, Bailey, 37, described the recognition as a significant honor and admitted to feeling flattered yet incredulous. His portrayal of Prince Fiyero in the 2024 film adaptation of “Wicked” captivated audiences, and his charm as Lord Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s hit series further solidified his status.
Additionally, Bailey received acclaim for his role in the Showtime series “Fellow Travelers” and his appearance in “Jurassic World Rebirth.” Embracing his British charm, he has amassed a loyal online following, earning him a spot among the Internet’s favorite heartthrobs.
During his appearance on the show, Bailey emphasized the prestigious nature of the People title, highlighting the significance of being recognized as a gay man. As the founder of The Shameless Fund, a charity supporting LGBTQ+ causes, Bailey expressed his commitment to championing the community in the face of current challenges.
Reflecting on his journey, Bailey shared his early aspirations to become an actor, which materialized when he performed with the Royal Shakespeare Company at a young age. His career spans various stage productions, including Shakespeare’s “Richard II” in London earlier this year.
The tradition of People’s Sexiest Man Alive dates back to 1985, with past recipients including Mel Gibson, Brad Pitt, and George Clooney. Bailey, featured on the cover of the upcoming People edition, humorously revealed that he confided in his dog, Benson, about the prestigious title before its public announcement.
