Bailey May

Bailey Thomas Cabello May is a Filipino-British singer, songwriter, model, actor, dancer, and television personality. He's best known as the Philippines' representative in the global pop group Now United, a role he held from 2017 until 2023. With over 4 million Instagram followers and a strong presence on TikTok and X, he's built a dedicated fanbase that spans continents.

Today, May is focused on his solo music career, releasing tracks on Spotify and other platforms. His sound blends pop with R&B influences, and he's been open about wanting to explore his own artistic identity outside of the group. Fans know him for his smooth vocals, his boyish charm, and his genuine, down-to-earth interactions online.

He's also ventured into acting, with credits that include a starring role in the 2020 film James & Pat & Dave. Whether he's singing, acting, or just sharing glimpses of his daily life, May brings an infectious energy that keeps his audience engaged and invested in his journey. [edit]

Bailey May grew up in Cebu City, Philippines, in a family with British and Filipino roots. From a young age, he was drawn to music, often singing along to songs on the radio. He found particular inspiration in artists like Sean Kingston and Daniel Padilla, whose songs he would cover and post online. These early covers started to gain attention, hinting at the performer he would become.

In 2015, at just 13 years old, May decided to try out for the tenth season of the reality show Pinoy Big Brother, titled Pinoy Big Brother: 737. His audition impressed the judges, and he was accepted into the house. Over the course of the season, he became a fan favorite, known for his cheerful personality and his willingness to take part in challenges. He ultimately finished as the third runner-up, which gave him a platform to launch his entertainment career.

After the show, May continued to build his presence on social media, posting covers and interacting with his growing fanbase. He also started to explore acting, taking on roles in television series like Maalaala Mo Kaya and On the Wings of Love. These early experiences set the stage for his big break in 2017, when he was chosen to join a brand-new global pop group. [edit]

Bailey May's life changed in 2017 when he was announced as one of the founding members of Now United, a pop group created by Simon Fuller that brought together performers from different countries. Representing the Philippines, May traveled the world with the group, performing in sold-out arenas and releasing hit singles. His role in the group showcased his dancing and singing abilities, and he quickly became one of the more recognizable members.

During his time with Now United, May also continued to pursue acting. In 2020, he starred in the Filipino romantic comedy film James & Pat & Dave, which was well-received by audiences. He also made appearances in other television projects, balancing his group commitments with his individual ambitions.

In 2023, May made the decision to leave Now United to focus on his solo career. Since then, he has been releasing his own music, connecting with fans through live streams and social media, and hinting at more projects to come. His solo work shows a more personal side, with lyrics that reflect his own experiences and growth. [edit]

Bailey May's public image is that of a friendly, approachable pop star. He's known for his bright smile, his casual style, and his willingness to interact with fans. On social media, he often shares behind-the-scenes moments, Q&A sessions, and playful videos that show his sense of humor. His fans, who call themselves 'Mayniacs,' are known for their loyalty and creativity, often making fan edits and trending hashtags for him.

In interviews, May comes across as humble and grateful for his opportunities. He's spoken about the importance of staying true to oneself, and he often encourages his followers to pursue their dreams. While he's serious about his craft, he doesn't take himself too seriously, which makes him relatable to a wide audience. [edit]

Bailey May's journey from a competitive dancer in Cebu to the sole Filipino representative of Now United created a distinct narrative arc that resonates deeply with Southeast Asian audiences. While the broader collective identifies simply as "Now United fans" or "NU fans," Bailey cultivated a loyal following through his genuine interactions on social media and his transition into solo work, particularly after the release of his comeback single "Come Closer." The fandom's energy was historically channeled through high-volume streaming parties and coordinated voting efforts that propelled group hits like "By My Side" to commercial success, creating a supportive environment for his rise. Iconic moments defining his legacy include his historic selection as the first Filipino artist in Simon Fuller's global lineup in late 2017 and the viral episode of "The Now United Show" featuring a playful challenge against Noah Urrea. His recent vlog revisiting the music video for "O Pag-ibig" with Ylona Garcia further bridged his past and present, cementing his status as a foundational figure before Jayna Hughes replaced the Filipino slot in June 2025. Bailey May is currently evaluated by iFANN but holds no placement in the published Global Top 1,000 rankings.[edit]

Bailey Thomas Cabello May, known affectionately as 'Bails,' is a huge basketball enthusiast who often joins pickup games during his free time. He shares his life with a pet dog named Coco, who frequently appears in his Instagram stories. Before joining the global stage, he was a competitive dancer who won several local competitions in Cebu. A lifelong admirer of Justin Bieber, May has cited him as a dream collaboration since childhood. Among the most retold stories of his career is his historic selection as the first and only Filipino artist to join Now United, a milestone that brought national pride to the Philippines. Fans still discuss the viral dynamic between Bailey and fellow member Noah Urrea featured in Episode 7 of "The Now United Show," where their intense yet playful challenge garnered over 1.9 million views. Another legendary moment involves his transition into acting within the NOW UNITED musical, showcasing his versatility beyond singing. More recently, a story emerged when Bailey revisited his music video for "O Pag-ibig" with Ylona Garcia in October 2025, sparking reactions that highlighted his enduring connection to his roots.[edit]

Bailey May was born in Cebu City to a Filipino mother and a British father, giving him a rich cultural heritage that he often celebrates. He has a younger sister named Chloe, who he is very close to and often features in his social media posts. His family has been supportive of his career from the beginning, with his parents often attending his performances when possible.

As of 2026, May is not married and does not have children. He lives in a condo in Manila, which he shares with his dog, Coco. He has spoken in interviews about how important family is to him, and he tries to visit his hometown as often as his schedule allows. [edit]

Bailey May's early musical inspirations include Sean Kingston and Daniel Padilla, whose songs he covered on his social media. As a member of Now United, he worked alongside fellow members from around the world, including Joao Faria and Any Gabrielly. His acting career has brought him into contact with Filipino actors like Diego Loyzaga, who starred alongside him in James & Pat & Dave. [edit]

Bailey May has kept his dating life largely private. In 2017, he was rumored to be dating his Pinoy Big Brother housemate, but neither confirmed it. In 2020, he was linked to a Filipino actress after they were spotted together, but again, he did not publicly confirm the relationship. As of 2026, May is reportedly single, focusing on his music career and personal growth. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates Bailey May's net worth at $2 Million as of 2026. His financial portfolio reflects a diverse mix of income streams derived from his music career, both as a solo artist and during his tenure with Now United. Acting roles, brand endorsements, and sponsored social media posts contribute significantly to his earnings. With over 4 million Instagram followers and a robust TikTok presence, he commands substantial fees for promotional content. During his years with the group, he earned a steady salary alongside a share of profits from tours and merchandise. Since launching his solo path, he has invested in independent music production and hinted at future ventures in fashion. Known for being financially savvy, he balances smart investments with personal indulgences like designer sneakers.[edit]

Bailey May has not yet won any individual awards for his work, but his contributions to Now United's success have been recognized by fans and industry peers alike. As a solo artist, he is still early in his career, and many expect him to earn accolades in the coming years. [edit]