Jonathan Bailey, an Emmy-nominated actor and prominent LGBTQ figure, discussed his decision to come out publicly with Elton John, emphasizing that his authenticity was paramount, even if it risked his career. Bailey, who publicly came out in 2018 after doing so privately in his early twenties, recounted a strong, almost primal urge to express his identity freely, stating he wouldn't refrain from holding his boyfriend's hand in public. He acknowledged that in his early career, being gay was perceived as a potential impediment to work. Bailey, being honored by the Elton John Impact Awards for his work with The Shameless Fund, highlighted how acting allows him to be truthful within his roles, a contrast to the need to "code switch" in everyday life. His candidness has resonated, leading to his historic naming as People magazine's Sexiest Man Alive.