In an exciting revelation, Jonathan Bailey, known for his captivating role in “Wicked,” has been named People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2025. This newfound accolade marks a significant milestone in his flourishing career.
The announcement was made on Monday night during “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” where Bailey was celebrated as the successor to John Krasinski, the acclaimed star of “The Office” and “Jack Ryan,” who held the title in 2024.
“It’s a huge honor,” Bailey expressed to the magazine with delight. “Obviously, I’m incredibly flattered. And it’s completely absurd,” he added, reflecting his humble and humorous approach to the recognition.
Jonathan Bailey has been winning hearts ever since his enchanting performance as Prince Fiyero in the 2024 film adaptation of “Wicked.” In this much-loved musical, he plays a character who encourages his peers to embrace a life of frivolity. Fans are eagerly awaiting the film’s second installment, set to hit theaters on November 21.
Bailey’s allure doesn’t stop there. He charmed audiences as the dashing Lord Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s hit series “Bridgerton” and garnered a 2024 Emmy nomination for his compelling performance in the Showtime series “Fellow Travelers.” His recent appearance in “Jurassic World Rebirth,” released in July, further solidified his status as a versatile actor.
During his appearance on Fallon’s show, Bailey described the title as an “honor of a lifetime,” underscoring his gratitude and excitement for this prestigious acknowledgment.
“I’m sort of thrilled that People magazine have invited someone in — bestowed this honor on someone who can really cherish the value of a sexy man,” he said.
Bailey told People that he’s known he wanted to be an actor since he was 5 years old and his grandmother took him to see a production of the musical “Oliver!” Within two years he had achieved that dream, performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
He’s had plenty of stage credits since then, including starring in Shakespeare’s Richard II in London earlier this year.
Bailey, who has spoken openly about being a gay actor, founded The Shameless Fund, which helps to support LGBTQ+ organizations.
“I know the LGBT sector is under immense threat at the moment,” he said. “So it’s been amazing to meet people who have the expertise and see potential that I could have only dreamed of.”
The first Sexiest Man Alive was Mel Gibson in 1985. Other past recipients include Brad Pitt, George Clooney, John F. Kennedy Jr., David Beckham, Michael B. Jordan, John Legend, Dwayne Johnson, Paul Rudd, Pierce Brosnan and Patrick Dempsey.
Bailey, who will be the cover story in People’s edition coming out Friday, had to stay tight-lipped about the news. But he admitted to the magazine that he couldn’t keep it a complete secret — he shared the news with his dog, Benson, who will also be featured in the magazine.
