Jonathan Bailey, recently named People magazine’s 2025 Sexiest Man Alive, first met Hugh Jackman while both were working on major film projects in England. Bailey had just finished shooting the movie adaptation of Wicked, while Jackman was filming Deadpool & Wolverine. Their encounter took place when they happened to be staying at the same hotel during overlapping production schedules.
This chance meeting happened before Bailey won the 2025 Sexiest Man Alive title, which has historical significance as he is the first openly gay man to receive the honor. Jackman shared the details of their introduction, saying he met Bailey
“on his last day of shooting Wicked”
while Jackman was working on Deadpool.
Shared Experiences and Mutual Respect Between Two Stars
Both Jackman and Bailey have enjoyed success in musical films and blockbuster franchises, giving them common ground beyond just their recent recognition as Sexiest Man Alive winners. Jackman recalled some less glamorous moments from his career, such as wearing long hair for Van Helsing, which he admitted was far from sexy. Bailey, on the other hand, once humorously described the makeup process for his role as Scarecrow in Wicked: For Good as making him look like a “big wheat penis.”
Jackman praised Bailey highly during an interview on Hits Radio UK, calling him
“just one of the greatest guys you’ll ever meet”
and commending his voice and acting talents. The conversation was lighthearted, with co-star Kate Hudson, nominated for an Oscar alongside Jackman, jokingly referring to Bailey as the Sexiest Man Alive, which led Jackman to question if all past winners were “hot.”
Context Behind the 2025 Sexiest Man Alive Recognition
Jonathan Bailey’s rise to prominence includes leading roles in Bridgerton, Wicked, and Jurassic World Rebirth. His recognition by People magazine places him among a prestigious group that includes Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and Michael B. Jordan. Bailey’s award is also a landmark moment as it represents inclusivity, marking a historical milestone for openly gay actors in Hollywood.
The timeframes for the respective productions offer context for their meeting. Wicked’s filming spanned from December 2022 to January 2024, interrupted by the SAG-AFTRA strikes, while Deadpool & Wolverine’s shooting schedule also overlapped during 2023 with the same work stoppages affecting both sets.
The Significance of Their Friendship and What Fans Can Look Forward To
The friendship formed between Hugh Jackman and Jonathan Bailey highlights how shared experiences during challenging film productions can create lasting connections. Fans of both actors can look forward to seeing Jackman in his new film Song Sung Blue, currently playing in theaters, and Bailey’s performance in Wicked: For Good, now available for rental or purchase.
Their mutual admiration adds a personal layer to their public personas, reminding audiences of the bonds forged behind the scenes in the entertainment industry. With Bailey continuing to rise and Jackman maintaining his influential status, their association symbolizes the dynamic and evolving nature of Hollywood stars.
“I met him on his last day of shooting Wicked. I was doing Deadpool. We were in the same hotel, and were hanging out.”
– Hugh Jackman
“That guy’s voice, his acting, just one of the greatest guys you’ll ever meet.”
– Hugh Jackman
