Fresh from being crowned People magazine's Sexiest Man Alive, actor Jonathan Bailey has sent his admirers into another frenzy, this time by sharing the screen with a beloved red Muppet. The 37-year-old star, known for his role in the upcoming Wicked film, became the latest celebrity to appear on the iconic children's programme, Sesame Street.
The charming clip was posted to the show's official Instagram on Tuesday, showcasing a gentle moment between the British actor and the character Elmo. Filmed on a park bench, the video quickly captured the hearts of viewers, with many declaring they had never been jealous of a puppet until now.
A Cosy Chat on the Bench
In the video, Jonathan, looking dapper in a purple round neck jumper, is seen 'taking a moment' when Elmo, sporting a cream cricket jumper, approaches. The actor warmly invites Elmo to join him, asking if he's cosy once the Muppet settles in.
When Elmo inquires what one does when they 'take a moment,' Jonathan offers a heartfelt explanation. 'Anything that makes us feel like we are taking care of ourselves,' he said. 'Sometimes I do nothing... and sometimes I just sit and listen to the leaves.'
He went on to describe how he uses the time to think about things that make him smile, such as his family, friends, and appreciating his accomplishments. The conversation took an even sweeter turn when Elmo chimed in with his own examples, asking, 'Like learning to ride your bike? And spell your name?'
Fans React with Emotion and Admiration
The comment section on the Instagram post quickly flooded with adoring messages from fans who were deeply moved by the simple, pure interaction. Many expressed how the video resonated with them on a personal level.
One fan wrote, 'I think if Jonathan Bailey put his arm around me and told me he was proud of me, that would fix me,' while another admitted, 'You know you're in burnout when you cry watching this.' The clip's message of mindfulness struck a particular chord, with one user sharing, 'My dad just passed away from cancer little did I know I needed a message from Jonathan and Elmo reminding me to take a moment.'
The overwhelming sentiment was that the video solidified Jonathan's recent title. Comments like, 'This man ABSOLUTELY deserved sexiest man alive. Not just bc of his looks but even the way he talks to Elmo has me melting,' were commonplace, praising his character as much as his appearance.
A Landmark Honour
This delightful appearance comes hot on the heels of a significant career milestone for the actor. Earlier this month, the news that Jonathan had been named People's Sexiest Man Alive for 2025 was revealed on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Jonathan expressed his elation, calling it 'the honour of a lifetime'. He poignantly acknowledged the historic nature of his win, marking the first time an openly gay man has received the title. He quipped that he was 'thrilled that People magazine have invited someone in, to bestow this honour on someone who can really cherish the value of a sexy man.'
This blend of high-profile recognition and his down-to-earth, kind-hearted interaction on Sesame Street has only served to endear Jonathan Bailey further to the public, proving that his appeal goes far beyond his dashing looks.
