Jonathan Bailey Breaks Barriers in Hollywood’s Iconic Award
Jonathan Bailey, the celebrated British actor, has made headlines worldwide after being named People’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2025. At 37, Bailey became the first openly gay man ever to earn the iconic title, describing it as “the honour of a lifetime.”
The announcement was made during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where Bailey admitted he was “still giggling” at the news. Reflecting on the historic moment, he said:
“In 2025, I’m sort of thrilled that People magazine have invited someone in, to bestow this honour on someone who can really cherish the value of a sexy man.”
Jonathan Bailey’s Rise to Stardom
Bailey’s acting journey began in 1997 at age nine, with a role on the British TV series Bramwell. He went on to appear in dramas like The Bill, Lewis, and the acclaimed Broadchurch, starring alongside David Tennant and Olivia Colman.
He gained international fame as Anthony, also known as Lord Bridgerton, in Netflix’s Bridgerton, which catapulted him to global stardom. Recently, Bailey played Prince Fiyero in the musical films Wicked: For Good, sharing the screen with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and starred alongside Scarlett Johansson in Jurassic World Rebirth.
On stage, Bailey has earned major accolades, including a 2019 Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical for Company. He also won last year’s Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Movie/Miniseries for Fellow Travelers.
Key Facts About Jonathan Bailey
- Age: 37
- Breakout role: Lord Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s Bridgerton
- Stage accolades: Laurence Olivier Award, 2019
- Film highlights: Jurassic World Rebirth, Wicked: For Good
- Historic milestone: First openly gay Sexiest Man Alive
Why This Moment Matters
Bailey’s win is more than personal achievement—it marks a cultural milestone for Hollywood and the LGBTQ+ community. Traditionally, People’s Sexiest Man Alive has celebrated stars such as Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Chris Evans, and Paul Rudd. Bailey’s historic recognition reflects a growing inclusivity in entertainment culture, celebrating talent and charisma beyond sexual orientation.
As Bailey told People,
“It’s thrilling to see the industry and audiences celebrate authenticity alongside traditional ideals of glamour and sex appeal.”
This recognition highlights a shift toward honoring diversity in Hollywood’s most prestigious pop culture accolades.
For context, last year John Krasinski was named Sexiest Man Alive, preceded by Patrick Dempsey in 2023 and Chris Evans in 2022. For a complete history of winners, visit People Magazine.
What’s Next for Jonathan Bailey
Bailey’s career shows no signs of slowing. He continues to headline major film and musical projects, including Wicked: For Good and Jurassic World Rebirth, demonstrating both his range and star power.
What it means: By breaking barriers as the first openly gay Sexiest Man Alive, Bailey sets a new standard for representation in Hollywood, showing that authenticity and talent are celebrated above all.
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Jonathan Bailey’s historic win as People’s first openly gay Sexiest Man Alive is a landmark moment for fans and the entertainment industry. Follow News Anna Karolina Heinrich for weekly celebrity news, lifestyle updates, and inspiring stories.
