English actor Jonathan Bailey attends the Time100 Next gala at Chelsea Piers in New York City on October 30, 2025. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP) (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP / Getty Images
The internet erupted in celebration after People magazine named Jonathan Bailey, star of Wicked: For Good, as its 2025 Sexiest Man Alive. Fans and celebrities alike cheered the announcement, with one prevailing sentiment online: “We couldn’t be happier.”
Bailey’s Wicked castmates joined the excitement, posting a lighthearted tribute video on the film’s social media pages. In the clip, co-stars Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum, Bowen Yang, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, and director Jon M. Chu all appeared wearing sweatshirts emblazoned with Bailey’s People magazine cover photos.
Each took turns congratulating Bailey—and teasing him a little in the process. Goldblum jokingly declared him “the sexiest man not only on this planet, but in the entire multiverse,” while Yang admired Bailey’s physique from a gymnastic-themed photo shoot, quipping that he “looks best in a singlet.” Bode kept it short and sweet: “Clearly—look at those abs.”
Amid the laughter, heartfelt tributes poured in. Grande called Bailey “the kindest, most brilliant, and beautiful inside as well,” while Erivo added, “Now the world knows what I’ve known all along.” She later echoed her excitement on Instagram, writing, “YEEEEESSSSSSS!!!!! I LOVE YOU! CONGRATULATIONS!!!”
Bailey’s win is not only a fan-favorite moment but also a historic milestone—he’s the first openly gay man to receive the title in People’s 40-year history of the “Sexiest Man Alive” issue. In his cover story, Bailey discussed his charity, The Shameless Fund, which supports nonprofits fighting anti-LGBTQ+ legislation globally. “There are so many brilliant people who feel like they can’t act on their potential,” he said. “It’s been inspiring to meet those who are making that change possible.”
The celebration marks a moment of pride not only for Bailey but also for fans who see his recognition as a symbol of representation, talent, and kindness taking center stage.
SOURCE: Billboard