The Real Story Behind People Magazine's "Sexiest Man Alive" And Evie’s Prediction For 2024

People Magazine’s "Sexiest Man Alive" title has a long history of being…well, hit or miss. But, let’s be honest—no matter how cheesy it might feel, people are still dying to know who will take the crown each year.

The title might get a few eye rolls, but the intrigue never fades. There’s even a bit of drama behind the scenes, too, with rumors swirling that some celebs have agreed to the title only to back out at the last minute. And while it’s tempting to assume the winner always has something big to promote, that doesn’t always seem to line up, adding even more intrigue to the controversial selection process.

The winners have been as hotly debated as politics. While some picks are so spot-on you can practically hear the collective swoon—like Brad Pitt in his prime, and Chris Hemsworth’s Thor era, some of the other choices are...choices. Blake Shelton? And John Legend??

And don't even get me started on Nick Nolte in 1992.

In some cases, the styling was partly to blame, with the overall look reading very gay. I'd assume that's on accident, but it's happened more than once. I mean, just look what they did to Johnny Depp.

This has left many to wonder: is it actually about sex appeal, or is it just who’s got a big project coming out that needs promotion? Or is it about "expanding" (aka distorting) the definition of masculinity in the same way many of these big media types have been doing to femininity for decades? It's no secret Hollywood has shifted away from masculine archetypes in recent years, preferring "soft boys" instead.

Whispers are floating around Hollywood that some of the hottest, traditionally masculine men have been offered the title but politely declined like they didn’t want to be caught in what feels like a campy PR parade. We can only assume People Magazine must’ve knocked on Henry Cavill's door by now, and he turned it down. How else do you explain his absence from the list? That jawline alone has earned him the title!

Possibilities and Evie's Prediction

At Evie, we’ve got some thoughts and a prediction for 2024’s winner—and personally, we’re ready for a return to men who make us swoon, not lecture us about the patriarchy.

Travis Kelce: Some are speculating that NFL star Travis Kelce might snag the title this year, especially with all the attention he’s been getting lately, which he seems to be enjoying. While he is obviously good-looking and a professional athlete, it would be a very polarizing pick and kick up even more publicity for him and Taylor Swift. I don't know if America can handle that.

Pedro Pascal: If People’s picks are more sending a political message than publicity, Pedro Pascal might be the frontrunner. Pascal is undeniably handsome and likable, but he’s more of a "nice guy" than a true heartthrob, and he has a fondness for pushing politics whenever it suits him. Unfortunately, his costar Gina Carano didn't get that same privilege. In a world that's leaning beta, he’s a definite contender.

Ryan Gosling: Gosling's recent role in Barbie reminded everyone that he can balance wit and sex appeal effortlessly, without the need to scream "Look at me, I’m a good guy!" (ahem, Chris Evans). He’s also a devoted family man, and his commitment to his kids and Eva Mendes only makes him more attractive. That said, I don't think he's actually going to snag the title, mainly because I think he's probably turned it down before. But he definitely deserves honorable mention.

Which brings us to Evie’s prediction for this year...

Glenn Powell: If you’ve been sleeping on Powell, wake up! He’s tall, chiseled, and oozes that leading-man energy with a perfect mix of old-school Hollywood charisma and modern-day charm. He's been giving major throwback vibes to when sexy meant cool and rugged, so we fully support this decision.

But let’s not give up on Henry Cavill just yet. While we assume he must’ve turned down the opportunity, we can’t let go of the hope that maybe this is the year he steps into the spotlight.

It’s time for sexy to mean sexy again, People. Do the right thing!