We All Love Jonathan Bailey, but How Do They Choose the Sexiest Man Alive?
Bridgerton and Wicked star Jonathan Bailey has officially been named People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive 2025. He becomes the first openly gay man to receive the title, marking a new milestone in the award’s 40-year history.
The announcement aired Monday night on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where Bailey accepted the title with wit and charm.
“It’s an honour of a lifetime, and I want to say, Jimmy, thank you so much for turning it down so I could be here.”
When asked if life might change after earning the title, Bailey laughed and replied:
“I f***ing hope so.”
Bailey follows actor John Krasinski, joining a lineup of past winners such as Patrick Dempsey, Chris Evans, Michael B. Jordan, George Clooney, Harrison Ford, and the original honouree Mel Gibson, who started the tradition in 1985.
How People Chooses the Sexiest Man Alive
The selection process, often assumed to involve public voting, is actually an editorial decision. Editors and staff at People magazine make the final call without any audience participation. Despite its playful tone, the honour remains a pop-culture fixture that reflects changing standards of charm and celebrity.
Author’s summary: Jonathan Bailey’s win as the first openly gay Sexiest Man Alive signals both a cultural shift and a reminder that People’s iconic title is chosen entirely by its editors.