A New Kind of “Sexy”
When Jonathan Bailey plunged into the icy English surf for his PEOPLE cover shoot, he probably didn’t know that moment would make global headlines. The Bridgerton and Wicked actor has officially been named PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive 2025, and he’s handling it with trademark wit and warmth.
“I mean, it’s the honor of a lifetime,” Bailey laughed during his appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. “I told my dog, Benson, but no one else. How do you spell…NDA?”
| Category | Details |
| Name | Jonathan Stuart Bailey |
| Born | April 25, 1988 — Oxfordshire, England 🇬🇧 |
| Profession | Actor (Stage, Television, Film) |
| Major Award | Olivier Award (2019) — Best Supporting Actor in a Musical |
The Rise of a Reluctant Heartthrob
Bailey’s career has been quietly building toward this moment for nearly three decades. From his early Royal Shakespeare Company days at age seven to his breakout as Anthony Bridgerton, he’s combined classical skill with genuine humility.
This year alone, he’s danced across genres: earning an Emmy nod for Fellow Travelers, singing in Wicked, and dodging dinosaurs in Jurassic World: Rebirth.
“You never really think this is where you’ll end up,” Bailey said in PEOPLE’s interview. “You just keep chasing what you love, and somehow, it all connects.”
Meet Benson — The Co-Star Who Stole the Cover
PEOPLE gave fans two covers this year: one featuring Bailey in cozy autumn knitwear, and another that melted hearts — literally — with his adorable dog Benson in his arms.
“Benson’s actually the handsome one,” Bailey joked. “I’m just the human who picks up after him.”
For many fans, the duo perfectly symbolizes a new definition of masculinity — warm, kind, and self-aware rather than hyper-polished or aloof.
The Fallon Moment Everyone’s Talking About
During Fallon’s Monday night episode, the host presented Bailey with his digital magazine cover amid cheers and confetti. Bailey, visibly flustered but glowing, quipped, “I hope people treat me differently now…I mean, I hope f**ing so!*”
The clip went viral within hours, racking up over 5 million views across YouTube and TikTok.
Even Fallon joked, “That’s how you accept an award, folks — graceful chaos!”
Why Jonathan Bailey’s Win Matters
Bailey isn’t just another Hollywood leading man; he’s also one of the few openly gay actors to hold the Sexiest Man Alive title. Fans and peers alike have praised the moment as a sign of how Hollywood’s idea of “sexy” is evolving — from six-packs and smirks to sincerity and substance.
“It’s amazing to see someone so authentic be celebrated,” tweeted actor Matt Bomer, Bailey’s Fellow Travelers co-star. “Jonathan is proof that confidence and kindness are incredibly attractive.”
Inside PEOPLE’s Decision
Every year, PEOPLE’s editorial team debates, polls, and surveys readers before selecting their honoree. But Bailey’s selection felt almost inevitable this year — charisma plus critical acclaim equals cultural magnetism.
PEOPLE’s Special Projects Director Andrea Lavinthal confirmed that the process remains “non-paid, all heart.”
“It’s not about looks alone,” she said. “We pick men who capture a moment — and Jonathan is that moment.”
Beyond the Glamour: The “Shameless” Mission
Behind the spotlight, Bailey channels his fame into advocacy. In 2024, he founded The Shameless Fund, a charity supporting LGBTQ+ organizations working to erase stigma.
“There are so many people who want to do brilliant things but feel like they can’t,” he told PEOPLE. “Helping them step into the light — that’s where I find real pride.”
The Internet Reacts
Within hours of the announcement, social media turned into a love-fest.
- “The first time PEOPLE has gotten it exactly right,” one fan posted on X.
- “Bridgerton’s Viscount is finally getting his crown!” wrote another.
Even former honorees joined in. Ryan Reynolds jokingly posted: “Congrats, Jonathan. The title comes with one free gym membership and 10 years of unsolicited DMs.”
A Man Grounded in Simplicity
Despite global fame, Bailey insists he’s still the same guy who loves quiet walks, late-night Lego builds, and the occasional glass of Bordeaux.
“I feel awkward a lot of the time,” he admitted. “But that’s okay. The trick is learning to love yourself even when you don’t feel sexy.”
The Bigger Picture
Bailey’s win isn’t just about a title; it’s about representation and redefinition.
He’s not the brooding bad boy — he’s the charismatic craftsman, a reminder that confidence, empathy, and humor are timelessly sexy.
If Bridgerton made him famous, PEOPLE just made him unforgettable.
Quick FAQ
Who is Jonathan Bailey?
He’s an English actor best known for Bridgerton, Fellow Travelers, and Wicked.
Why was he chosen?
PEOPLE cited his talent, humor, advocacy, and relatability as what makes him “irresistibly human.”
Is he the first openly gay Sexiest Man Alive?
Yes — making his win a milestone in representation and inclusivity.
What did he say about it?
Bailey called the honor “completely absurd” and said his dog Benson was the only one he told before the announcement.
Where can I see the interview?
Watch his full reaction on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon (aired Nov. 3, 2025).
Summary
Jonathan Bailey’s Sexiest Man Alive moment is more than a headline — it’s a celebration of charm over ego, humor over hype, and authenticity over perfection.
From stage actor to screen idol, Bailey has proven that real sex appeal begins with kindness and confidence.
And if you ask Benson? He’d probably agree — with a wag of approval.