This Actor Just Made History by Being People’s First Openly Gay Sexiest Man Alive

Jonathan Bailey has made history as People’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2025. The announcement was made on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” on Monday night. The British actor called the honor “an honor of a lifetime” and thanked Fallon with a touch of humor, saying, “And I want to say, Jimmy, thank you so much for turning it down so I could be here.”

This year marks the 40th anniversary of People’s Sexiest Man Alive issue. During his interview, Bailey revealed he first learned about the recognition while performing in Shakespeare’s Richard II. “The only thing madder than doing ‘Richard II’ was to be invited into this,” he said. He also reflected on the significance of the award, noting, “I’m sort of thrilled that People magazine have invited someone in, to bestow this honor on someone who can really cherish the value of a sexy man.”

When asked if he expects life to change after winning, Bailey joked, “I f**** hope so.”

Bailey gained widespread recognition for his role as Lord Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton, which premiered in 2020. Since then, he has expanded into film, playing roles such as Prince Fiyero in Wicked and Dr. Henry Loomis in Jurassic World: Rebirth.

The Sexiest Man Alive feature has been a yearly tradition since 1985. Past winners include Mel Gibson, John Krasinski, Patrick Dempsey, Chris Evans, Paul Rudd, Michael B. Jordan, and John Legend. Bailey is also the first openly gay man to receive this title, a milestone he addressed on Fallon’s show: “In 2025, I’m sort of thrilled that People magazine have invited someone in, to bestow this honor on someone who can really cherish the value of a sexy man.”

Bailey’s People covers feature him both chest-deep in a rocky ocean and shirtless while holding a fluffy dog, showcasing his charm and versatility as the magazine celebrates this year’s milestone edition.

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