Move aside, Viscount Bridgerton — there’s a new titleholder in town. People magazine has officially named Jonathan Bailey as its Sexiest Man Alive for 2025, sending fans around the world into a frenzy. The 37-year-old British actor, best known for his role as the charming and intense Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s Bridgerton, was revealed as this year’s winner during The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Monday night, taking the crown from 2024’s honoree, John Krasinski.
For nearly forty years, this title has been one of pop culture’s most talked-about traditions, and Bailey seems more than deserving. With his blend of charisma, talent, and genuine warmth, he’s become one of the most adored figures on and off screen. His reaction to the news captured that mix perfectly: equal parts humor, humility, and disbelief.
When Jimmy Fallon made the announcement, Bailey laughed and said, “It’s an honor of a lifetime,” before joking, “Thank you, Jimmy, for turning it down so I could be here.” In his interview with People, he described the recognition as “completely absurd,” but added, “Obviously, I’m incredibly flattered.”
Bailey shared that he first got the news while performing Richard II in London earlier this year, an experience he described as “mad” but “thrilling.” Reflecting on the honor, he quipped, “I’m glad that in 2025, People Magazine is recognizing someone who can really appreciate the value of a sexy man.” When asked whether life might change now that he’s earned the title, he laughed, “I hope so!”
Bailey’s path to international fame has been years in the making. Born in Oxfordshire, England, he fell in love with acting at just five years old after watching Oliver! with his grandmother. By age seven, he was performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the start of a journey that would eventually lead to starring roles on London’s West End and global recognition on Netflix.
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While American audiences know him best as the smoldering Lord Anthony Bridgerton, Bailey’s versatility runs far deeper. His Emmy-nominated performance in Fellow Travelers, where he portrayed a closeted congressional aide, showed just how much emotional depth he brings to every role.
Recently, he’s expanded his career to the big screen — starring in this summer’s Jurassic World: Rebirth and taking on the highly anticipated role of Prince Fiyero in Wicked, alongside Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, and Scarlett Johansson. Off camera, Bailey’s charm and grounded energy have made him just as beloved among his peers as among fans.
Of course, the Sexiest Man Alive title isn’t just about one person — People also released a series of fan-voted winners across multiple categories to mark the franchise’s 40th anniversary. Dancing with the Stars judge Derek Hough was named Sexiest 40-Year-Old (his sister Julianne even shaved her head on-air to celebrate), while David Beckham earned Sexiest Soccer Club Owner. Dave Franco took home Sexiest Cat Dad, country star Riley Green became Sexiest Country Star, and rising actor Mason Thames was named Sexiest New Heartthrob.
Even fictional characters cut: The Summer I Turned Pretty’s Conrad Fisher (played by Christopher Briney) won Sexiest “Green Flag” Character, while podcast duo Frank Alvarez and Joe Santagato from The Basement Yard were crowned Sexiest Podcasters. Troye Sivan, Christian McCaffrey, and Dylan Efron also earned nods in their respective categories, a testament to how fun and varied this year’s lineup was.
But back to Bailey, what truly makes his win special is that he’s not just another handsome face. In his People cover story, he arrived straight from a cold ocean dip for a photoshoot, casually requesting a glass of Bordeaux afterward. Within minutes, the room was reportedly filled with laughter, thanks to his quick wit and natural charm.
Bailey also opened up about his insecurities, admitting, “I feel awkward quite a lot of the time. I think that state is lifelong for me.” It’s that vulnerability — combined with undeniable talent — that makes him so relatable and magnetic.
Today, as he prepares for the release of Wicked: For Good and reflects on his journey so far, Bailey remains grounded. “You get to a point where you look back and think, ‘Wow,’ but you never for a second think that’s where you’re headed,” he said. “To be able to do things you’ve always dreamed of — that’s the real gift.”
Jonathan Bailey’s recognition as People’s Sexiest Man Alive 2025 isn’t just another accolade; it’s a celebration of charm, authenticity, and a career built on passion and purpose. And for fans around the world, it’s one more reason to adore him.
