Overview
- The announcement aired on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where Bailey received a standing ovation and called the honor “the honor of a lifetime.”
- Fallon revealed two official covers featuring Bailey, one posing on seaside rocks and one shirtless holding a dog.
- Bailey said he learned of the selection while performing Shakespeare’s Richard II in the theatre.
- People executive Andrea Lavinthal cited criteria such as charisma, social engagement, and popularity, and noted winners are not paid.
- Bailey’s rising profile spans Bridgerton and recent films like Wicked and Jurassic World: Rebirth, as People Inc. navigates a reported 6% workforce reduction.