Jonathan Bailey is a British actor, born April 25, 1988, in Wallingford, UK. He is mostly known for his work as Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s popular period series Bridgerton, and more recently as Prince Fiyero in both Wicked and Wicked: For Good. He has gotten a lot of attention from not only fans and media, but also from People magazine. Specifically, the “Sexiest Man Alive” voting.
People magazine has had a “Sexiest Man Alive” since it began 40 years ago, in 1985, with the very first winner being actor and filmmaker, Mel Gibson. What exactly is the reason? Well, the authentic truth isn’t known, it was said by early writers of People that an editor blurted out that Mel Gibson was the Sexiest Man Alive, and the phrase took off from there. Fast forward 40 years, and Bailey was bestowed the honor.
And yet what is so historical about his winning is that he is the first gay man to have been given the title. His win marks a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in the entertainment industry.
In his interview with People, Bailey called the recognition a “huge honor” and mentioned that progress is very attractive. The article highlighted his charm, passions, energy, and determination—from acting with the Royal Shakespeare Company as a child, to becoming one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars. His win reflects more than just success, it signals a wider move within media toward celebrating diverse and authentic voices of Hollywood.
Variety journalist Marc Malkin gave his opinions on Jonathan Bailey’s win, and how being the first openly gay crowned winner goes beyond looks. Having Bailey as the first openly gay Sexiest Man Alive inspires many, and can “go a long way in letting [young people] know that it’s OK to be who you are and dream big.” For LGBTQ+ youth, seeing someone like Bailey celebrated in such a high-profile way is not just about celebrity glamour, but can help feelings of isolation and fear, and show how being genuine and confident is not always frowned upon.
Malkin also notes that while Bailey’s recognition won’t erase homophobia or stop political attacks on the LGBTQ+ community, it can chip away at prejudice by demonstrating that being openly gay does not prevent success, admiration, or mainstream appeal. In short, Bailey’s win is a milestone for representation, that Hollywood is slowly evolving and that celebrating diversity can be both meaningful and widely celebrated.
Saba Peterson ‘28, detailed her take on the news. “I think it’s a win for the LGBTQ+ community, but also especially since we are in times where progress in society is being reversed.” Peterson continued with a potential thought from the magazine. “It could also be a statement from People about their stance with the community, as they could be showing support during adversity.”
Jonathan Bailey’s win is more than just a magazine title. It is a historic moment for Hollywood and the LGBTQ+ community. Being the first openly gay actor to earn the “Sexiest Man Alive” title, he not only breaks a decades-long barrier but also shows that such recognition is possible for those once overlooked.
