Jonathan Bailey makes history as People magazine's first openly gay 'Sexiest Man Alive'
Jonathan Bailey, star of Wicked and Bridgerton, has been named People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2025, marking a historic first as the title goes to an openly gay man.
The announcement was made during The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where Bailey, 37, expressed his delight at the accolade. “It’s an honour of a lifetime,” he said with a laugh, adding, “Obviously, I’m incredibly flattered. And it’s completely absurd.”
Bailey’s win coincides with the 40th anniversary of the magazine’s annual tradition, which began in 1985 with Mel Gibson as its inaugural honouree. Over the decades, the title has been held by Hollywood heavyweights including Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Idris Elba and last year’s recipient, John Krasinski.
The Oxfordshire-born, Hove-based actor rose to global fame as Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s hit period drama Bridgerton and has since cemented his leading-man status with roles in Jurassic World: Rebirth and the blockbuster musical Wicked, in which he plays Prince Fiyero. He also earned critical acclaim for his performance in Showtime’s Fellow Travelers, which explored LGBTQ+ history and politics.
Bailey has long been open about his sexuality and is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in the entertainment industry. His historic win has been widely celebrated online, with fans and fellow stars praising People’s choice. Cynthia Erivo, Bailey’s Wicked co-star, wrote on Instagram: “Now the world knows what I’ve known all along.”
Reflecting on the significance of the moment, Bailey told People: “Life is a ride for everyone, no matter who you are or where you come from. It’s just making sure that when you’re on the ride, you’re looking left and right and making sure everyone’s all right.”
