Jonathan Bailey named PEOPLE’s 2025 Sexiest Man Alive — Inside his rise from “Bridgerton” to Hollywood royalty

When Jonathan Bailey takes a plunge into the icy waters off the southern coast of England, it’s hard not to see the symbolism. The 37-year-old British actor — known for his mix of elegance, humor, and heart — isn’t afraid of challenges. Emerging from the freezing surf, he settles into a cozy knit sweater, sips a glass of Bordeaux, and flashes that effortless charm that has now earned him one of pop culture’s most coveted titles: PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2025.

Bailey’s reaction to the honor is refreshingly humble. “It’s a huge honor. I’m incredibly flattered. And it’s completely absurd,” he told People, laughing as he admitted the only one he’s shared the secret with is his beloved dog, Benson. “How do you spell… NDA?” he joked.

The official announcement came during The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, marking the 40th anniversary of the magazine’s iconic special issue. The British star joins an elite list of past honorees that includes Chris Hemsworth, Ryan Reynolds, Denzel Washington, and Patrick Dempsey.

From Oxfordshire to Hollywood’s Bright Lights

Bailey’s path to fame began far from the glitz of Hollywood. Raised in rural Oxfordshire by his parents, Carole and Stuart, alongside three older sisters, Bailey’s love for acting sparked at age five after watching a stage production of Oliver! with his grandmother. By seven, he was performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company — a rare feat for a child actor.

Fast forward to today, Bailey’s career has evolved into a mix of stage mastery and screen stardom. His breakout came with Netflix’s Bridgerton, where his portrayal of Lord Anthony Bridgerton earned him global attention. That role was followed by a critically acclaimed performance in Showtime’s Fellow Travelers, which earned him an Emmy nomination.

Then came Hollywood’s biggest stages — Wicked, the movie musical where he played Prince Fiyero alongside Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and Jurassic World: Rebirth, where his charisma proved just as magnetic off-screen as on.

The Man Behind the Fame

Despite his success, Bailey maintains an everyman sensibility. “I feel awkward quite a lot of the time. I feel like that state is lifelong for me,” he once admitted. Friends and co-stars describe him as grounded, genuine, and endlessly warm — qualities that make him not just sexy, but deeply relatable.

Photos of Bailey on red carpets — whether hugging Scarlett Johansson, laughing with Ariana Grande, or posing with Benson — capture a man who seems comfortable in his own skin. His easy chemistry with co-stars has also made him a fan favorite. As Wicked: For Good prepares for its November 21 release, Bailey says he’s savoring the calm before the next storm of fame. “You look back and go, ‘Wow,’” he reflected. “You never think that’s where you’re headed — just being able to do the things you dream of.”

A Heartthrob with Heart

Bailey’s inclusion in People’s annual list isn’t just about his good looks; it’s a celebration of his authenticity and quiet confidence. Whether performing Shakespeare or flying with dinosaurs, he’s proven that true appeal comes from being unapologetically yourself.

And as he raises that glass of wine by the seaside, it’s clear that Jonathan Bailey isn’t just the Sexiest Man Alive — he’s one of the most genuine stars in Hollywood today.

FAQs

Q1: Who is PEOPLE’s 2025 Sexiest Man Alive?
A: British actor Jonathan Bailey, best known for Bridgerton and Wicked, has been named PEOPLE’s 2025 Sexiest Man Alive.

Q2: What was Jonathan Bailey’s reaction to being named Sexiest Man Alive?
A: Bailey said he was “incredibly flattered” but found the title “completely absurd,” joking that he only told his dog, Benson.

Q3: What other roles is Jonathan Bailey known for?
A: Bailey gained international fame from Bridgerton, starred in Fellow Travelers, and played Prince Fiyero in Wicked.

Q4: When will Wicked: For Good be released?
A: The highly anticipated sequel is set to premiere in theaters on November 21, 2025.

Q5: Who are some past winners of PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive?
A: Previous honorees include Chris Hemsworth, Ryan Reynolds, Dwayne Johnson, and Patrick Dempsey.