Jonathan Bailey, known for his role in the hit film adaptation of Wicked, has been named People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2025. The announcement, made during an episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on October 16, marks a significant moment in the actor’s career, as he succeeds John Krasinski, who held the title in 2024.
“It’s a huge honor,” the 37-year-old actor expressed to People magazine. “Obviously, I’m incredibly flattered. And it’s completely absurd.” Bailey’s rise to fame has been remarkable, with audiences captivated by his portrayal of Prince Fiyero in the popular musical film Wicked. The second part of the film is set to hit theaters on November 21, 2025, promising to further showcase his talent.
In addition to his role in Wicked, Bailey has won acclaim as Lord Anthony Bridgerton in the Netflix series Bridgerton. His impressive performances earned him a nomination for an Emmy Award in 2024 for his work in the Showtime series Fellow Travelers. More recently, he starred in Jurassic World Rebirth, which premiered in July.
Bailey shared his excitement with Fallon, describing the title as an “honor of a lifetime.” He expressed gratitude that People magazine chose someone who appreciates the significance of being recognized as a “sexy man.”
His journey into acting began at a young age. “I’ve known I wanted to be an actor since I was five,” he recounted, recalling a childhood visit to see a production of the musical Oliver! Within two years, he was performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company, a remarkable achievement for someone so young. His stage credits have continued to grow, including a recent portrayal in Richard II in London.
In addition to his artistic accomplishments, Bailey is a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Having openly discussed his experiences as a gay actor, he founded The Shameless Fund, which supports organizations that focus on LGBTQ+ issues. “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 selection of the Sexiest Man Alive began in 1985, with Mel Gibson being the first recipient. Since then, the list has included notable figures such as Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and Dwayne Johnson. Bailey’s recognition continues this tradition, adding a modern touch to a title that has celebrated male attractiveness and charisma for nearly four decades.
