It’s been a landmark moment for both Hollywood and LGBTQ+ representation — Jonathan Bailey has officially been named People magazine’s first-ever openly gay Sexiest Man Alive.
The announcement, revealed during The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, marks a major milestone in the magazine’s nearly four-decade tradition.
The 37-year-old English actor, who’s been enjoying a massive year in film and television, takes over the title from last year’s controversial pick, John Krasinski.
A Blockbuster Year for Bailey
Bailey’s rise to the top of People’s list comes after a string of high-profile roles.
He recently starred alongside Scarlett Johansson in Jurassic World Rebirth, and later this year, he’ll appear in the much-anticipated sequel Wicked: For Good.
In Wicked, Bailey plays Prince Fiyero, the charming love interest of Ariana Grande’s Glinda, while sharing an intriguing, possibly romantic, tension with Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba.
Earlier this year, Bailey even made headlines after sharing several on-screen kisses with Johansson — moments that fans were quick to discuss online.
Of course, many still know him best for his breakout role as Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s steamy hit Bridgerton, which turned him into an international star.
From Child Star to Leading Man
Bailey’s career has been a long and steady climb. He first appeared on screen at just nine years old in the British TV series Bramwell in 1997.
Over the years, he popped up in well-known British dramas like The Bill and Lewis before landing bigger roles that showcased his range.
He starred alongside David Tennant and Olivia Colman in the acclaimed crime drama Broadchurch and was a familiar face in the comedy world too, appearing in the BBC’s W1A and Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Crashing.
On the big screen, Bailey featured in St Trinian’s and Elizabeth: The Golden Age, both released in 2007.
An Award-Winning Talent
Bailey’s acting credentials are as impressive as his looks. He’s a Laurence Olivier Award and Critics’ Choice Television Award winner.
In 2019, he won Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical at the Olivier Awards for his standout performance in Company.
More recently, in 2024, he took home the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Movie/Miniseries for his role in Fellow Travellers.
Breaking Barriers and Making History
Bailey’s win isn’t just about good looks — it’s symbolic. As the first openly gay man to hold the title, his recognition represents a shift in how masculinity, sexuality, and celebrity are celebrated in mainstream culture.
Fans and industry peers have praised People’s decision as a long-overdue move toward inclusivity.
A Look Back at Past Winners
Bailey’s crowning follows last year’s selection of John Krasinski, which sparked mixed reactions online.
While some fans approved, others questioned the choice, with comments like, “John Krasinski sexiest man alive? Hmm, I’m not sure.”
Over the years, People’s Sexiest Man Alive list has included some of Hollywood’s most iconic names — Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Denzel Washington, Idris Elba, and Ryan Reynolds, to name just a few.
The tradition began in 1985 when a then 29-year-old Mel Gibson became the magazine’s first-ever pick.
A Defining Moment for a Beloved Star
For Jonathan Bailey, this honor feels like the perfect capstone to an already remarkable year.
From his theatre roots to global superstardom, his journey reflects not only talent but authenticity and courage.
And now, as the first openly gay Sexiest Man Alive, Bailey isn’t just redefining what it means to be attractive — he’s also rewriting what it means to be seen.