'Bridgerton' heartthrob Jonathan Bailey crowned 'People’s Sexiest Man Alive 2025', makes history as first gay winner

Bailey has officially entered the club of the Sexist Man Alive 2025.

His name was announced on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon.

"It's a huge honor. Obviously I’m incredibly flattered. And it’s completely absurd. (Laughs) It’s been a secret, so I’m quite excited for some friends and family to find out," Bailey said speaking to People.

The 37-year-old has become the first openly gay man to receive this title.

He is openly gay, and has spoken about authenticity, representation, and the challenges for gay actors in the industry.

He founded The Shameless Fund in 2024, a charity aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ causes (especially given his observation that only a tiny fraction of funds in the UK go to LGBTQ+ groups).

He enjoys outdoor activities like cycling, paddle boarding, mountaineering showing a connection to physical fitness and wellness off-screen.

He’s had a strong theatre background: e.g., starring in the gender-swapped revival of Company (West End, 2018) which earned him the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical (2019).

He also stars as Prince Fiyero in the film adaptation of Wicked (2024) and is set to reprise that role.   

On screen, his breakout international profile came with Bridgerton (as Viscount Anthony) which gave him global recognition.