Robert Irwin has nothing but praise for Jonathan Bailey, who was just named PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive.
Speaking with PEOPLE after an episode of “Dancing with the Stars,” Irwin said there’s no better man to hold the title, calling the win “well-deserved.”
“Jonathan, mate. Well done, mate, well deserved. I love it,” Irwin gushed.
On November 3, Bailey was named this year’s Sexiest Man Alive. In an interview with PEOPLE, the “Wicked” actor said it’s “a huge honor” to be given the title.
Robert Irwin on Receiving Flowers from Jonathan Bailey: ‘Nothing Wrong With That’
Irwin also shared his thoughts about Bailey’s sweet gesture following their Wicked-themed night on “DWTS.”
“Let’s normalize men giving men flowers!” Irwin said. “Nothing wrong with that. I think it’s the best.”
Irwin, who channeled Bailey’s character Fiyero, performed a jazz routine to “Dancing Through Life” alongside her dancing partner, Witney Carson. Later that week, Bailey surprised Irwin with a bouquet of flowers during rehearsals.
“You are the shiz, Robert,” Bailey’s note read. “You’ve done all the Fiyeros proud. Cheering you on from afar. Big love, JB.”
Irwin couldn’t hide his excitement upon receiving the flowers. “This has made my day! Thank you so much, Jonathan!” he said, grinning from ear to ear.
Irwin and Carson’s “Wicked” performance failed to get a full score, with judges awarding the duo a total of 36 out of 40. And while they praised their storytelling and precision, they felt it wasn’t the strongest performance of the night.
Despite not getting a full score, Irwin still received his highest scores of the season, four nines for his “Wicked” performance. Prior to that, the wildlife conservationist got three nines and one eight for his “You’ll Be in My Heart” performance.
Other Celebs React to Bailey’s Sexiest Man Alive Title
Irwin isn’t the only one gushing about Bailey’s Sexiest Man Alive title. His “Wicked” co-stars made a compilation video for Bailey, rocking matching sweatshirts printed with the actor’s photo.
Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba in the film, commented on Instagram, “YEEEEESSSSSSS!!!!! Now the world knows what I’ve known all along 😏 I LOVE YOU! CONGRATULATIONS!!!”
Meanwhile, Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda, reposted Bailey’s cover shoot.
Bailey’s “Bridgerton” co-stars joined in the fun, with Charithra Chandran (Edwina Sharma) commenting, “Yes,” alongside a heart emoji. Jessica Madsen, who plays Cressida Cowper, chimed in, leaving fire emojis in the comment section.
