Jonathan Bailey’s Playful “Soggy Bottom” Quip Sparks Cheeky Buzz After Historic ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ Win

Jonathan Bailey, acclaimed for his roles in “Bridgerton,” “Fellow Travelers,” and the upcoming “Wicked: For Good,” made global headlines this week after being named People’s 2025 Sexiest Man Alive—the first openly gay man to receive the title in the magazine’s history . Bailey’s selection marks a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ visibility in mainstream pop culture, with the actor expressing both humility and humor in his reaction. “It’s completely absurd,” Bailey laughed in his People interview, before joking that the only soul he’d told was his dog, Benson .

Bailey’s career trajectory—spanning theater, television, and film—has made him one of the most prominent British actors of his generation. Widely celebrated for his nuanced performances and advocacy, Bailey has leveraged his platform to support organizations combating anti-LGBTQ+ legislation worldwide, particularly through his charity, The Shameless Fund .

Amid the flurry of press following his “Sexiest Man Alive” honor, Bailey sparked a playful wave of speculation and amusement on social media by referencing his fondness for “soggy bottoms” during a lighthearted interview segment . The phrase—synonymous with baking mishaps thanks to its popularization on “The Great British Bake Off”—was delivered with a wink, fueling fan theories and a flurry of memes about Bailey’s personal preferences.

While some online outlets and fans interpreted the comment as a cheeky nod to gay dating culture, others emphasized Bailey’s characteristic wit and warmth. The moment, though ultimately light in tone, underscores the broader shift in celebrity culture toward greater openness and humor about sexuality and identity, especially among LGBTQ+ stars .

Bailey’s visibility and openness come at a time when LGBTQ+ representation in entertainment is both expanding and under renewed scrutiny. As the first openly gay recipient of People’s Sexiest Man Alive, Bailey’s recognition is seen by many as a powerful affirmation of progress within the industry. Media commentators have noted that his win, coupled with his candid public persona, provides crucial visibility for LGBTQ+ people worldwide—especially for young fans seeking role models who reflect their identities .

In interviews, Bailey has spoken about the challenges and joys of being an out gay man in the spotlight, reiterating his commitment to using his fame as a force for positive change. “Trust your instincts because they’ve got your back,” he advised his younger self in a recent profile, a message that has resonated strongly across LGBTQ+ communities .

Jonathan Bailey’s playful “soggy bottoms” remark and historic Sexiest Man Alive title illustrate the evolving landscape of celebrity and LGBTQ+ visibility. His blend of humor, humility, and advocacy has not only cemented his place in entertainment history but has also contributed to a more inclusive and affirming media environment. As Bailey prepares for the release of “Wicked: For Good” and continues his philanthropic work, his influence as both an entertainer and advocate is set to grow even further—much to the delight of fans and the LGBTQ+ community alike .