Jonathan Bailey Is the Internet's Boyfriend — But Is He in a Relationship?
"I'd much prefer to hold my boyfriend's hand in public than getting a part."
Updated Nov. 5 2025, 4:15 p.m. ET
Since his breakout role in Bridgerton, Jonathan Bailey has skyrocketed to fame and has been dubbed the internet's boyfriend thanks to his irresistibility on and off screen.
In 2025, Jonathan was also named People's Sexiest Man Alive, cementing his heartthrob status and becoming the first openly gay actor to earn the title.
So, it is no surprise that fans are curious about Jonathan's relationship status. Does he have a partner? Keep reading to find out.
Jonathan Bailey's last known boyfriend was in 2023, and the relationship was very low-key.
Despite his ability to make his co-stars fall in love with him, the handsome actor is seemingly single. However, in 2023, Jonathan revealed he was in a relationship with a "lovely man."
"It’s not secret, but it’s private. Having a private life is, for me, completely critical," he told The UK Standard. "I don’t know if I would be able to be as confident to speak out on other things if I felt that my whole life was up for grabs.”
Before that, Jonathan was linked to an advertising director named James Ellis, who was his date at the 2019 Olivier Awards. The couple was last spotted together in 2021.
In an interview with People, Jonathan shared the qualities he looks for in a partner and his dealbreakers.
“Communication—and being clear. Transparency is absolutely utmost, utmost, utmost. And really supporting, really cheerleading and watching someone thrive, should be a real turn-on," he said, before revealing that his dealbreakers including, "Bad communication, lack of transparency. Doesn’t like Lego."
Jonathan Bailey has been very open about his sexuality.
Despite his decision to keep his relationships private, Jonathan is very open about his sexuality. In a 2022 interview with GQ Hype, the Wicked star shared why he decided to "come out" as an actor publicly, despite being advised by another actor to hide it.
“I reached a point where I thought, ‘F--k this, I'd much prefer to hold my boyfriend's hand in public or be able to put my own face picture on Tinder and not be so concerned about that than getting a part,’” Jonathan told the outlet.
Along with being honest about his sexuality, Jonathan has also opened up about whether or not he plans to start a family in the future.
"Yes, it’s such a privilege for a man,” he told British Vogue in January of 2025.
"But I can’t bring children into my lifestyle now," he continued. "I want to make sure I’m going to be present. I’m reading books on adoption. I might coparent with a woman, but I’m thinking it will be with a man."
For now, he is focused on being a dog dad to his pup, Benson.