There’s a new Sexiest Man Alive, and he’s breaking stereotypes while redefining charm. People Magazine has crowned Jonathan Bailey, the 37-year-old Bridgerton and Fellow Travelers actor, as Sexiest Man Alive 2025.
Bailey’s win is historic — he’s the first openly gay man ever to receive the title in the magazine’s decades-long history. The English actor beat fan favourites Pedro Pascal, Glen Powell, Jason Kelce, and Henry Cavill to clinch the honor.
People’s Magazine Unveils the Cover
The 2025 Sexiest Man Alive issue features Bailey on two striking covers — one showing him emerging from the ocean and another where he smiles while holding a dog.
“It’s quickly obvious why the English actor, 37, brimming with charm, wit, and almost unfairly handsome looks, has become one of the most irresistible stars in Hollywood,” People wrote in its feature, adding that Bailey remains modest about the global attention.
Who Is Jonathan Bailey?
Bailey began his acting journey in theatre, earning early recognition for his work in British TV dramas like Broadchurch (2013). His breakout role as Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s Bridgerton catapulted him to international fame.
He has since starred in acclaimed projects such as Fellow Travelers and big-budget films like Wicked and Jurassic World Rebirth.
Bailey privately came out to family and friends in his early 20s and made his sexuality public in 2018. “If I can fill spaces that I didn’t have growing up, then I feel like that’s a really brilliant thing,” he said in an earlier interview.
Who Did Jonathan Bailey Beat for the Title?
According to Sportsbook Review’s odds before the announcement:
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Pedro Pascal led the race with 38% probability
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Jeremy Allen White followed with 15%
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Jonathan Bailey was third with 11% odds — but ultimately took the crown
Other notable contenders included Glen Powell, Jason Kelce, Henry Cavill, Harry Styles, Shawn Mendes, Sterling K. Brown, and Jacob Elordi.
A Historic Win for Representation
Bailey’s recognition marks a cultural milestone in Hollywood, symbolizing broader representation and inclusivity in global pop culture. His humility, talent, and advocacy for authenticity have made him one of the most admired figures both on and off screen.
