Bridgerton Star Johnny Bailey Crowned Sexiest Man Alive in Historic First

On November 3, 2025, Bridgerton star Johnny Bailey, 37, was revealed as the latest cover star of the Sexiest Man Alive issue. The announcement was met with praise from Bailey's co-star, Matt Bomer, 48, who called the honor "long overdue" and "impactful" as the first LGBTQ+ person to receive the title.

Bomer, who played a politician having a secret affair with Bailey in the 2023 limited series Fellow Travelers, expressed his delight at Bailey's selection. "I'm glad the world has finally woken up to what we've all known for years, and I could not be more proud and happy for Johnny. I love him dearly, and he is more than deserving of this title."

Bailey himself admitted he was "still giggling" about inheriting the coveted crown, describing it as a "huge honor" and "completely absurd." The actor recalled being "in the zone" on Shakespeare's Richard II earlier this year when he learned of the news, saying, "You go slightly mad, and the only thing madder than doing Richard II is being invited into this."

As the first LGBTQ+ individual to be named Sexiest Man Alive, Bailey's selection is seen as a significant milestone. Bomer noted, "Part of me feels like I can't believe it's taken until 2025, but I'm just grateful that we're here today. I think you have to put that aside and then say, hey, progress is progress, and this is phenomenal."