Jonathan Bailey and David Corenswet may be ruling global screens today, but their journey to becoming the internet’s favorite heartthrobs has been anything but predictable. Both started out as young actors in theatre, expecting modest careers. Instead, they now find themselves leading massive blockbuster films — Bailey in the highly anticipated fantasy musical Wicked: For Good, and Corenswet as the newest face of Superman.
Despite the fame, both actors remain grounded, thoughtful, and refreshingly honest. They describe their newfound popularity as something surreal — almost like an unexpected software upgrade neither of them saw coming.
The Rise of Two Unlikely Heartthrobs
Bailey, recently crowned the first openly gay “Sexiest Man Alive,” laughs at how unlikely this title feels to him. Corenswet, meanwhile, has always been jokingly compared to Clark Kent thanks to his strong jawline and classic hero look — even before being cast as Superman.
Interestingly, neither of them ever chased this kind of stardom. Their real common trait? A deep, almost childlike earnestness toward their craft.
Corenswet recalls telling director James Gunn, “If you wanted someone cool, you should’ve hired someone else.” Gunn replied, “Oh, believe me. I know.”
To Corenswet, “cool” is simply not caring — and that’s why he rejects the idea. Bailey, however, says that caring is exactly what makes Corenswet cool.
Their Shared Roots in Theatre
Both actors share a strong theatre background.
Corenswet began acting at age 9, playing a small role in a professional production in Philadelphia. He fondly remembers how alive he felt on stage — and how seeing a paying audience react instantly shaped his love for acting.
Bailey agrees. Theatre teaches actors to be present, vulnerable, and committed. It’s why both of them brought a theatrical depth to their latest roles.
Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan rehearsed their Superman scenes almost like stage performances, allowing them to create more authentic chemistry. Corenswet calls it “coming home.”
Behind the Scenes of Wicked & Superman
Bailey talks about the chaotic and exhilarating experience of filming two Wicked movies at once. One day he’d be in a classroom scene, and two days later he’d be singing “For Good,” one of the biggest emotional moments in the franchise.
He also reveals that he and Corenswet surprisingly share the same trainer — Paolo — who helped Corenswet transform from a self-described “string bean” into a superhero who gained 40 pounds of muscle.
Bailey compares the physical training to vocal training. Consistency and discipline lead to confidence — something he needed when shooting intense dance and singing sequences for Wicked.
Perfection Takes Work — Even for Superheroes
Both actors insist that talent alone isn’t enough. Even the most gifted performers train tirelessly. Ariana Grande changed her entire vocal tone for Wicked. Cynthia Erivo trained endlessly to deliver powerful takes.
Corenswet notes that if something looks easy on screen, it’s because tremendous work went into it.
They also discuss how audiences measure success in many different ways — box office numbers, critic reviews, fan reactions, and more. But for Corenswet, the real validation still comes from the set — the director’s approval, the crew’s energy, and his scene partner’s response.
Why Both Actors Want to Direct One Day
Interestingly, both Bailey and Corenswet express that acting sometimes feels too limited. They are often the last to know things on set, and they feel a desire to be more involved in the bigger creative process.
Corenswet admits he likely will write and direct eventually. Bailey says he deeply respects the work of every crew member and would be honored to follow a story from start to finish.
Playful Banter, Honest Moments & Pure Chemistry
Towards the end of their conversation, the two actors tease each other like old friends.
Corenswet jokingly asks Bailey where he goes after being named “Sexiest Man Alive” — Bailey laughs nervously and tries to dodge the question.
Corenswet then praises Bailey for a levitation scene in Wicked, calling it a moment where Bailey manages to look masculine, powerful, and graceful all at once — even while being lifted by co-star Cynthia Erivo.
Bailey returns the compliment, saying he was stunned by the emotional chemistry in Corenswet’s Superman kiss scene.
They even end the interview by joking:
“Should we kiss or something?”
Their playful banter only highlights what fans love most about them — two grounded, talented actors who still feel amazed by their own success.
Conclusion
Jonathan Bailey and David Corenswet may play larger-than-life characters on screen, but behind the scenes, they are simply two passionate artists who care deeply about storytelling. Their honesty, vulnerability, and relentless commitment to their craft make them not just breakout stars — but actors whose careers will continue to soar.