Jonathan Bailey Named ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ by People Magazine: What Makes Him a Heartthrob

People Magazine has named its latest Sexiest Man Alive, and this year it’s actor Jonathan Bailey, known for his roles in “Wicked” and “Bridgerton.” He is likely the first openly gay man to receive this title. Expressing his excitement, Bailey shared, “It’s the honor of a lifetime,” during an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

Interestingly, each year, the honor typically goes to a Hollywood star, leaving countless deserving individuals in other professions overlooked. For example, firefighters and veterinarians often go unrecognized in favor of actors who help keep the magazine in the spotlight. This isn’t the first time that People has faced scrutiny; they recently laid off 6% of their workforce, highlighting the industry’s ongoing challenges.

Bailey isn’t just charming; he also has a furry companion named Benson, featured on one of the magazine’s covers alongside him. This fun twist shows the magazine’s lighter side, drawing in readers who appreciate the connection between celebrities and their pets.

What’s notable about this title is that it doesn’t come with any monetary reward—or so they say. Andrea Lavinthal, the magazine’s Executive Director, confirmed that the honor is purely spiritual, with no payment involved for the winner. Readers can also participate in the decision-making process, as People announces various “sexiest” titles leading up to the main event. This year, for instance, the title of “Sexiest New Dad” went to Christian McCaffrey, with Dave Franco snagging the “Sexiest Cat Dad” title.

A historical glance reveals that the first Sexiest Man Alive was Brad Pitt in 1995. Funny enough, it was the same year the phrase “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit” became popular, following the infamous O.J. Simpson trial. Since then, the list of winners has included a diverse group of men, but some say there’s a bittersweet reality: all past winners carry the weight of life’s challenges, from career setbacks to personal struggles.

While this award seems lighthearted, it often reflects deeper societal standards and trends surrounding beauty and worth. In today’s world, many winners, including celebrities like Michael B. Jordan, have highlighted their contributions beyond looks, such as activism and philanthropy.

In an era where looks are often idolized, the conversation around beauty, masculinity, and public perception is continually evolving. Jonathan Bailey’s win not only shines a spotlight on representation but also encourages broader discussions about what it truly means to be “sexy.”

For those wanting more insights on this and other topics related to beauty standards and representation, check out the related articles on Good Housekeeping.

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