English actor Jonathan Bailey, who returns to movie theatres this month in the musical film "Wicked: For Good," was named this year's "sexiest man alive" by People magazine on Monday.
The 37-year-old Bailey said it was a "huge honour" to receive the pop culture accolade previously awarded to stars including Chris Hemsworth and George Clooney.
"Obviously, I'm incredibly flattered. And it's completely absurd," Bailey told People. He joked that he had only shared the news with his dog, Benson.
The selection of Bailey, also known for his role as Lord Anthony in the period drama Bridgerton, was announced on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Bailey played Prince Fiyero in last year's blockbuster Wicked, a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, and will reprise the role in the coming sequel Wicked: For Good. The actor also starred in dinosaur flick Jurassic World: Rebirth this summer.
The Office actor John Krasinski was named "Sexiest Man Alive" in 2024.
Other actors and singers who have been given the title by People magazine's editors include Blake Shelton, Adam Levine, Idris Elba and Channing Tatum.
Billie Eilish and James Cameron team up for immersive and intimate tour film
Lively, Baldoni lawyers spar over damages ahead of 'It Ends With Us' trial
Taylor Swift files to trademark her voice, likeness to ward off AI deepfakes
Kimmel says his joke was misconstrued, Trump calls ABC to fire late-night host
Worker dies during stage assembly for Shakira concert in Rio
Visionary music conductor Michael Tilson Thomas dead at 81
