Jonathan Bailey crowned People Magazine’s ‘sexiest man alive 2025’ calls title “Absolutely Absurd”

British actor Jonathan Bailey, best known for his charming portrayal of Viscount Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s global hit Bridgerton , has been named People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2025. Reacting with his signature wit, Bailey called the honour “absolutely absurd” but admitted he was “deeply flattered and grateful.”

Bailey’s rise to stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. Born in Oxfordshire, England, the 37-year-old actor began his career as a child performer with the Royal Shakespeare Company before earning accolades on the London stage. His performance in the gender-flipped revival of Company won him the prestigious Laurence Olivier Award in 2019. Recently, Bailey made waves in Hollywood with his role as Prince Fiyero in Wicked (2024) and is set to appear in several high-profile projects.

In addition to his acting achievements, Bailey is celebrated for his advocacy within the LGBTQ+ community. As one of the few openly gay actors to receive this title, his win marks a meaningful moment for inclusivity and representation in popular culture.

The announcement was made by People Magazine, the iconic American weekly known for its celebrity coverage and human-interest storytelling. Founded in 1974, People introduced the “Sexiest Man Alive” franchise in 1985 with Mel Gibson as its first honoree and has since become one of the most anticipated annual features in entertainment media.

Bailey’s recognition follows a long line of global stars, but his combination of talent, humility, and modern-day charm makes his selection particularly fitting. His breakout in Bridgerton , the lavish period romance series produced by Shondaland, captivated audiences worldwide, earning him a reputation as one of television’s most magnetic leading men.

As Bailey humbly put it, “It’s absurd, but if it brings joy or laughter, I’ll take it.” For millions of fans around the world, there’s no question the title suits him perfectly.