It’s that time of year again when People Magazine names its Sexiest Man Alive, and for 2025, the honor goes to none other than Jonathan Bailey, star of Bridgerton and Wicked.
The announcement was made during The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where it was revealed that Bailey is stepping into the spotlight as the latest addition to the magazine’s decades-long tradition. The 2024 titleholder, The Office star and A Quiet Place director John Krasinski, now passes the crown to Bailey — a beloved actor known not only for his charm and screen presence, but also for his versatility across film, television, and even gaming. Fans may also recognize his voice as the character G’raha Tia, also known as the Crystal Exarch, in Final Fantasy XVI.
Credit: Jason Hetherington/PEOPLE
Upon receiving the recognition, Jonathan Bailey expressed both gratitude and disbelief. “It’s a huge honour,” he said. “Obviously, I’m incredibly flattered. And it’s completely absurd.” Speaking with Fallon, the actor described the title as “the honour of a lifetime.” Bailey also made history as the first openly gay man to receive the accolade, a milestone he acknowledged with pride.
Beyond his acting career, Bailey is also known for his advocacy work. In 2024, he founded The Shameless Fund, a charity supporting LGBTQ+ organizations through creative initiatives. “I know the LGBT sector is under immense threat at the moment,” he shared. “So it’s been amazing to meet people who have the expertise and see potential that I could have only dreamed of.”
Credit: Jason Hetherington/PEOPLE
Jonathan Bailey now joins an exclusive club of “Sexiest Men Alive,” a list that began in 1985 with Mel Gibson and has included icons such as Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Michael B. Jordan, John Legend, Dwayne Johnson, Paul Rudd, Pierce Brosnan, Chris Evans, Patrick Dempsey, and John Krasinski.
His People cover — which will also feature his dog, Benson — hits stands this Friday.
Up next, Bailey will reprise his role as Fiyero in Wicked: For Good, set to premiere in theaters on November 21.
Credit: Jason Hetherington/PEOPLE
