The Ultimate List Of Sexiest Men Alive: Why Jonathan Bailey’s 2025 Win Makes History

The annual announcement of People's Sexiest Man Alive is one of the most anticipated celebrity reveals of the year, and the 2025 selection has made history. As of December 18, 2025, the coveted title belongs to English actor Jonathan Bailey, a star whose charm and talent have captivated audiences worldwide. This year's issue is a landmark moment, celebrating not just physical appeal but also charisma, kindness, and cultural impact, with a diverse list of honorees that goes far beyond the main cover star.

The 2025 list, succeeding previous winners like John Krasinski (2024) and Patrick Dempsey (2023), reflects a major shift in what the world defines as "sexy." Jonathan Bailey’s win is particularly significant as he becomes the first openly gay man to be named the Sexiest Man Alive since the title’s inception in 1985. This article dives deep into the star’s profile, the full list of men who made the cut, and the surprising results from the fan-voted Readers’ Choice Poll.

Jonathan Bailey: Biography and Profile of the 2025 Sexiest Man Alive

Jonathan Bailey has cemented his status as a global heartthrob, blending classical stage training with modern Hollywood stardom. His career trajectory has been marked by critically acclaimed performances and a magnetic on-screen presence, making him a deserving and popular choice for the 2025 title.

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• Full Name: Jonathan Stuart Bailey
• Born: 25 April 1988
• Age at Win (2025): 37
• Nationality: British (English)
• Occupation: Actor
• Notable Roles: Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix's Bridgerton, Fiyero in the film adaptation of Wicked, and various roles in the Royal Shakespeare Company.
• Historical Significance: First openly gay man to be named People's Sexiest Man Alive.
• Quote on Win: Bailey expressed a mix of surprise and gratitude, noting the honor of joining such an esteemed list of men.

Bailey’s appeal extends beyond his dashing looks; he is frequently praised for his wit, humility, and passionate advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. His groundbreaking win signals a positive evolution in mainstream media’s definition of a leading man, prioritizing authenticity and depth alongside traditional attractiveness.

The 2025 Sexiest Man Alive Readers' Choice Poll: Surprising Wins and Fan Favorites

While the cover star is chosen by the magazine's editors, the annual Readers' Choice Poll provides a fascinating look into the collective desires of the public. The 2025 poll saw a record-setting number of votes, with over 350,000 readers weighing in across various playful and specific categories.

The poll is crucial for generating topical authority, featuring a diverse range of celebrities from film, music, and social media. It highlights the hottest stars across different demographics and niches, showcasing a wide spectrum of celebrity men.

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Key Categories and Honorees from the 2025 Poll:

The following celebrity men captured the hearts of the voters, proving that "sexy" comes in many forms, from chiseled features to charming personalities and even fictional green flags. These entities form the core of the complete list of honorees for the 2025 issue.

• Sexiest 40-Year-Old: Derek Hough. The professional dancer and choreographer proved that talent and longevity in the spotlight are incredibly appealing.
• Sexiest Tattoos: Dylan Efron. Zac Efron's equally attractive brother, known for his adventurous spirit, took this category, celebrating the appeal of body art.
• Sexiest 'Sally': Troye Sivan. This unique category, likely a nod to his song and style, was captured by the singer-songwriter, highlighting his trendsetting fashion and artistic vision.
• Sexiest 'Green Flag' Fictional Character: Conrad in The Summer I Turned Pretty. Proving that fictional men can be just as swoon-worthy, this character was voted for his desirable personality traits.
• Other Notable Mentions: The issue featured numerous other celebrity men celebrated for their style, talent, and charm, including actors like Damson Idris, Jonah Hauer King, and Colman Domingo, who were all prominent contenders in the various categories.

A Look Back: The Evolution and History of the Sexiest Man Alive Title

The "Sexiest Man Alive" title is more than just a beauty contest; it's a cultural barometer reflecting societal ideals of masculinity and celebrity. Since Mel Gibson was named the inaugural winner in 1985, the list has featured a who's who of Hollywood's hottest stars, from George Clooney (a two-time winner) to Idris Elba.

The history of the title shows a gradual but significant shift. Early winners often embodied a rugged, traditional masculinity. However, recent selections have increasingly emphasized qualities like humor, intelligence, kindness, and social conscience, making the title more inclusive.

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Recent Sexiest Man Alive Winners:

Examining the recent winners reveals a trend toward actors known for their approachable charm and positive public image:

• 2024: John Krasinski. Known for his "nice guy" persona and directorial talent.
• 2023: Patrick Dempsey. Celebrated for his enduring charm and philanthropic efforts.
• 2022: Chris Evans. Recognized for his superhero status and genuine personality.
• 2021: Paul Rudd. Honored for his ageless looks and self-deprecating humor.

The choice of Jonathan Bailey in 2025 is a monumental step, as it breaks a 40-year tradition and validates the appeal of openly LGBTQ+ celebrities in a mainstream, universally appealing context. It underscores the idea that a man’s "sexiness" is rooted in his confidence and authenticity, regardless of his sexual orientation. This focus on internal qualities ensures the list remains fresh and relevant to modern audiences.

Topical Entities and LSI Keywords: Why This List Matters

The annual Sexiest Man Alive issue is a goldmine of topical entities, generating massive buzz across the entertainment industry. Beyond the main winner, the issue celebrates dozens of celebrity men, ensuring high topical authority. The inclusion of stars from various fields—like Derek Hough (dance/TV), Troye Sivan (music), and Damson Idris (film)—creates a comprehensive snapshot of the year’s hottest male celebrities.

LSI keywords, such as *hottest stars*, *celebrity men*, *Bridgerton star*, and *Sexiest Man Alive history*, naturally thread through the discussion, reinforcing the article's relevance. The list's significance lies in its ability to launch careers, redefine celebrity appeal, and spark global conversations about what constitutes true charisma and attractiveness in the modern age. The 2025 list, led by the incredibly talented Jonathan Bailey, will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most important in the title's long and storied history.