From Bridgerton to Wicked: Jonathan Bailey Stuns Fans as He’s Crowned People’s Sexiest Man Alive — and You Won’t Believe Who He Beat for the Title
Hollywood has a brand-new heartthrob wearing the crown, and this year, it’s none other than Jonathan Bailey — the dazzlingly talented actor who leapt from Regency romance in Bridgerton to Broadway magic in Wicked, and now straight into People magazine’s history books as the 2025 Sexiest Man Alive.
Bailey’s journey to the top of People’s coveted list reads like a modern fairytale — one filled with perseverance, passion, and a touch of destiny. Known first for his breakout role as the brooding Viscount Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s hit period drama, Bailey captivated audiences with his piercing gaze, old-world charm, and quiet intensity. Yet it wasn’t just his good looks that earned him legions of fans; it was the vulnerability and emotional depth he brought to the screen that made people truly fall in love.
Then came Wicked, the highly anticipated two-part musical adaptation that reimagined the world of Oz. As Fiyero, the charismatic prince who dances between mischief and sincerity, Bailey showcased not only his acting prowess but also his singing and stage roots. His chemistry with co-star Ariana Grande became the talk of social media, and soon his name was lighting up headlines across Hollywood and beyond.
But the real magic behind Bailey’s “Sexiest Man Alive” title isn’t just about his physical allure — it’s about his authenticity. Openly gay and proud, Bailey has become an emblem of modern masculinity, redefining what it means to be “sexy” in an era that craves honesty over image. Fans have praised him for his transparency, humility, and dedication to using his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in film and television.
People’s editors reportedly faced one of their toughest decisions yet, with heavy hitters like Chris Evans, Michael B. Jordan, and Pedro Pascal all in the mix. But Bailey’s combination of timeless charm, contemporary relevance, and global appeal ultimately pushed him to the top.
“When you meet Jonathan, you understand immediately why everyone is drawn to him,” an insider from People magazine revealed. “He’s confident without arrogance, playful without pretense — and when he looks at you, you feel like the only person in the room.”
Social media exploded within minutes of the announcement. Fans flooded X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with celebratory posts, memes, and swooning tributes. One viral tweet summed it up best: ‘Jonathan Bailey didn’t just win Sexiest Man Alive — he won our hearts years ago.’
As he prepares for the release of Jurassic World: Rebirth and the second installment of Wicked, Bailey stands on the precipice of superstardom. With charm that feels both classic and fresh, he’s not just Hollywood’s newest leading man — he’s the kind of star that reminds audiences why we fall in love with movies, and with the people who make them, in the first place.
This year, Jonathan Bailey didn’t just steal the spotlight. He redefined it.
