Jonathan Bailey makes history as People’s Sexiest Man Alive 2025, becoming the first openly gay recipient as the magazine marks its 40th anniversary of the title.
Wicked and Bridgerton star Jonathan Bailey has officially been named People’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2025, making history as the first openly gay man to receive the honor. The announcement was made by Jimmy Fallon during the Monday, Nov. 3 episode of The Tonight Show, where the 37-year-old actor reacted with humor and gratitude, calling it “the honor of a lifetime.”
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Bailey revealed that he received the life-changing call while performing the titular role in Richard II at London’s Bridge Theatre earlier this year. Reflecting on the surreal moment, he joked, “You go slightly mad. The only thing madder than doing Richard II was to be invited into this.” He also quipped that when he told his friends, their response was, “Yeah, do your affirmations.”
Already celebrated for his award-winning career — including a Critics’ Choice Award and an Emmy nomination — Bailey’s new title highlights both his charm and cultural significance. His recognition marks a milestone for LGBTQ+ visibility, aligning with People’s 40th anniversary of naming the Sexiest Man Alive. The honor first began in 1985, with Mel Gibson as the inaugural recipient.
Last year’s title went to The Office and A Quiet Place star John Krasinski, who was revealed during The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. Krasinski joined a growing list of previous honorees that includes Patrick Dempsey (2023), Chris Evans (2022), Paul Rudd (2021), Michael B. Jordan (2020), John Legend (2019), and Idris Elba (2018). The only year without a single honoree was 1993, when Richard Gere and Cindy Crawford were jointly named Sexiest Couple Alive.
Bailey — who stars in the upcoming Wicked and has won hearts as Anthony Bridgerton in Bridgerton — takes his place among these notable names with grace and wit. During the announcement, he humorously thanked Jimmy Fallon for “turning it down,” proving his charm is as irresistible off-screen as it is onscreen.
As People commemorates 40 years of crowning Hollywood’s most irresistible men, Bailey’s milestone marks a defining moment in pop culture — celebrating not only his talent and charisma, but also a meaningful step forward for representation.
