Jonathan Bailey, PEOPLE’s 2025 Sexiest Man Alive, brought a touch of Broadway magic to Sesame Street on Tuesday, Nov. 18. While the British actor brought his signature energy to a playful dance with Bert and Ernie, it was his quiet, heartfelt moment with Elmo that left fans swooning.
Dancing with Bert and Ernie
In a Wicked-themed segment, Bailey joined the iconic duo for a lively dance party. “We’re dancing through life, Bert,” he said, referencing his hit number from Wicked: For Good, which opens in theaters Nov. 21. The actor’s enthusiasm was infectious, with Bert and Ernie keeping pace as they celebrated the joys of friendship and music.
But while the dance was fun and flashy, it was a brief prelude to the scene that really captured hearts.
A Quiet Moment with Elmo
Later, Bailey shared a more reflective interaction with Sesame Street’s smallest star, Elmo. Sitting on a bench bathed in autumn sunlight, the actor took a pause from the day’s excitement. “Sometimes I do nothing, and sometimes I just sit and listen to the leaves,” Bailey told Elmo. “And then I think about all the things that make me smile, like my family and friends. Friends like you.”
The pair spoke about taking moments for oneself, embracing both reflection and joy. Bailey added, “And maybe there are some adventures and moments that we’re yet to experience.” Their conversation ended on a warm note, as Bailey and Elmo agreed to share hot chocolate together, proof that even a busy actor can find sweetness in stillness.
Back to Broadway
Bailey’s appearance comes ahead of the highly anticipated release of Wicked: For Good, the conclusion to Jon M. Chu’s two-part Broadway adaptation. The star will also take a short hiatus from acting to focus on his charity, The Shameless Fund, though he clarified he won’t be stepping away entirely from the stage in 2026.
For now, fans can catch Bailey dancing, reflecting, and sharing simple joys with one of Sesame Street’s most beloved characters. And for those who cherish the magic of small, tender moments, the scene with Elmo might just be the sweetest number of all.
