Just weeks before the release of his latest film Wicked: For Good, actor Jonathan Bailey was named People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive. The actor receiving the title is a historic moment, as he is the first openly gay man to do so.

His upcoming reprisal of the role of Fiyero in Wicked: For Good will likely showcase his leading man status further, as he serves as the love interest to the revolutionary Wicked Witch of the West Elphaba, portrayed by Cynthia Erivo. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film, based on the second act of the Broadway musical Wicked, also stars Ariana Grande, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Colman Domingo, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum.

In regard to his newly bestowed status as the Sexiest Man Alive, Bailey told People: “It’s a huge honor. Obviously, I’m incredibly flattered. And it’s completely absurd. It’s been a secret, so I’m quite excited for some friends and family to find out.” Given the timing of this announcement, Bailey was also asked about it while promoting Wicked: For Good alongside Goldblum.

As Goldblum sang snippets of “You Sexy Thing” by Hot Chocolate and “I’m Too Sexy” by Right Said Fred, Bailey opened up about his history-making win. “It’s completely absurd, and brilliant, hilarious,” the Bridgerton star said. “But I am taking it very seriously. I’m going to squeeze every ounce of sexuality I have for the next 360 days. And also, I’m representing all the sexy people out there. I feel the weight of history of all the sexy men that came before me.“

Goldblum acknowledged the weight of the moniker, noting that Bailey stands “on sexy shoulders.” Afterward, Bailey noted that “there is nothing sexier than progress,” in reference to him being the first openly gay man to claim the title, which prompted a brief look of confusion on his costar’s face.

This reaction did not last long, however, as Bailey reminded Goldblum of his win’s importance, prompting an emphatic agreement from the Jurassic Park alum. The interview then took a humorous turn as the former revealed his nickname for the latter: “I call him Bailey’s Cream. Bailey’s Cream.“

“If you leave me out, I curdle,” Bailey retorted. Throughout promoting Wicked in 2024, the two shared many similarly comedic interviews, highlighting their playful dynamic. The promotional tour for Wicked: For Good seems to be carrying on this trend, in spite of the film pitting the two on opposing sides of its conflict.

Wicked: For Good releases in theaters on November 21, 2025.