Jonathan Bailey just made history. The Bridgerton and Fellow Travelers star has officially been named People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive 2025, becoming the first openly gay man to receive the title, a landmark moment in Hollywood’s ongoing journey toward representation and inclusivity.

How the big reveal happened

The announcement came during the November 3 episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where Fallon unveiled the latest cover of People magazine featuring Bailey. The actor, best known for his portrayal of the charming Lord Anthony Bridgerton, looked both amused and humbled by the honor.

“It’s a huge honor. Obviously, I’m incredibly flattered. And it’s completely absurd,” Bailey told People with a laugh. “It’s been a secret, so I’m quite excited for some friends and family to find out.”

The first “person” he told was his dog

In true Jonathan Bailey fashion, the actor revealed that the first soul he shared the news with wasn’t a friend or colleague, but his dog, Benson.

“I told my dog Benson [who joined him at the shoot]. But no, I haven’t. How do you spell… NDA?” he joked, hinting at the secrecy surrounding the reveal.

The heartwarming admission quickly went viral, adding to the internet’s affection for the 37-year-old actor, whose mix of sincerity and wit continues to make him one of the most beloved divs in entertainment.

From Bridgerton to Broadway to blockbuster films

Bailey’s recognition comes after an extraordinary run across television, theatre, and film. His portrayal of Lord Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s Bridgerton catapulted him into global fame, while his performance as closeted diplomat Tim Laughlin in Fellow Travelers earned him an Emmy nomination.

In 2024, Bailey expanded his repertoire further — starring as Prince Fiyero in the highly anticipated Wicked adaptation and appearing in Jurassic World: Rebirth. Each project showcased his range, charisma, and growing star power, cementing his place among Hollywood’s most bankable names.

What he’d tell his younger self

Reflecting on his journey from a young theatre hopeful to global heartthrob, Bailey offered heartfelt advice for his teenage self.

“Dude, you’re in for a ride. You’re not going to believe where you’re going to end up. It’s all going to be fine. It’ll be bumpy, but you’ll meet some amazing people. And trust your instincts because they’ve got your back.”

It’s a reflection of the resilience and authenticity that have defined Bailey’s path — especially as one of the few openly gay leading men in mainstream entertainment.

His friends’ reactions and a dose of humility

Asked how his friends reacted to the news, Bailey said with a grin, “I think a lot of my friends will. They’ll be furious that I haven’t told them. And then they’ll just squeal with delight.”

He went on to add that those closest to him know the man behind the title. “Behind the mask of being identified as a sexy man are other truths that they know and they’ve witnessed. They know the secrets.”

That humility is part of why Bailey’s win resonates beyond Hollywood glitz; it’s not just about appearance, but authenticity.

Why Bailey’s win matters

Bailey’s selection as Sexiest Man Alive marks a significant cultural milestone. For decades, the title has gone to heterosexual stars such as George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Michael B. Jordan. Bailey’s win signals how definitions of masculinity and sex appeal are evolving, expanding to include confidence, empathy, and self-acceptance.

His recognition also reflects broader industry change: a move toward LGBTQ+ representation that’s genuine rather than tokenistic. Bailey, who has spoken candidly about his experiences coming out in a still-conservative industry, continues to use his platform to normalize queer visibility.

A moment bigger than the title

For Jonathan Bailey, this moment is not just about personal triumph but also visibility. By standing proudly as himself, a talented, gay leading man commanding blockbuster roles, Bailey is redefining what it means to be both “sexy” and seen.

His journey from theater stages to global stardom, and now to People’s iconic cover, mirrors a shifting cultural narrative, one where authenticity is the new allure.