Jonathan Bailey Opens Up About His Love Life as First Gay Sexiest Man Alive

Jonathan Bailey, the acclaimed actor known for his role in the popular series Bridgerton, has made headlines as the first openly gay man to be named People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive. While Bailey has kept much of his dating life private, details about his romantic history have slowly surfaced, particularly his relationship with fellow actor James Ellis.

The pair attended the 2019 Olivier Awards together, where Bailey won an award for his performance as Jamie in the West End revival of the musical Company. Their public display of affection, including a kiss, confirmed their romantic involvement. Reports indicate that they dated from 2019 until 2022, marking a significant chapter in Bailey’s life.

A year after their relationship ended, Bailey revealed he was dating a “lovely man,” although he opted not to disclose his partner’s name. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a private life, stating, “Having a private life is, for me, completely critical.” Bailey further explained that he believes having personal boundaries allows him to express himself more freely in other areas of his life.

Reflecting on his past relationships, Bailey shared that he dated a woman for two years in his early 20s. He described the experience as having “so many nuances,” especially as he was coming to terms with his sexuality. Despite the complexities, he remains close friends with his ex-girlfriend, stating, “She remains one of my best friends.”

Bailey has candidly discussed the challenges he faced regarding his sexuality. He admitted that he once thought he needed to be straight to find happiness. The journey to publicly embracing his identity was not easy, particularly in the entertainment industry. He recalled a friend’s advice, saying, “There’s two things we don’t want to know: if you’re an alcoholic or if you’re gay.”

Despite the pressures of public perception, Bailey reached a point where he prioritized his happiness over societal expectations. “I thought, ‘F**k this, I’d much prefer to hold my boyfriend’s hand in public,'” he remarked. This shift in perspective has allowed him to express affection more openly, although he acknowledged some awkward moments in the past, including being heckled while holding hands with a boyfriend in London.

In a recent appearance on Chicken Shop Date in July 2025, Bailey shared an update about his relationship status, declaring, “I’m available,” indicating that he is currently single. As fans speculate about his next romantic chapter, it remains to be seen how much he will share, given his commitment to privacy.

Jonathan Bailey’s journey reflects a broader narrative about the importance of authenticity and personal happiness in a world often scrutinized by public opinion. While specific details about his dating life may be sparse, his openness about challenges faced as a gay man in the spotlight paints a relatable picture for many navigating similar paths.