Noah Wyle named People’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2026
American actor Noah Wyle, 55, has been named People’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2026, receiving the magazine’s annual title for the first time, according to Variety.
In an interview with People following the announcement, the star of HBO’s medical drama The Pitt admitted that he initially struggled to believe the news, CE Report quotes AGERPRES.
“I thought it was a prank. Never in a million years would I have imagined receiving an award like this,” Wyle said.
The actor also joked about how the recognition might change his life.
“I hope this changes everything. I hope it’s nothing but wine and roses, milk and honey from here on out,” he said.
He then added humorously that he did not actually expect such a transformation but was certain his friends and family would have plenty of jokes at his expense.
Wyle rose to prominence in 1994 when he began portraying medical student, and later doctor, John Carter in NBC’s acclaimed medical drama ER.
The series featured an ensemble cast that included George Clooney, Anthony Edwards, Sherry Stringfield and Julianna Margulies.
During his time on ER, Wyle received three Golden Globe nominations and five Primetime Emmy nominations, although he did not win either award for the role.
Sixteen years after ER concluded in 2009, Wyle returned to the medical drama genre with HBO’s The Pitt, portraying Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch.
His performance across the show’s first two seasons earned him a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Television Drama Series, as well as consecutive Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2025 and 2026.
The third season of The Pitt is scheduled to premiere in January 2027.
Following in the footsteps of Hollywood stars
People magazine first introduced its Sexiest Man Alive title in 1984, when actor Mel Gibson became its inaugural recipient.
Wyle succeeds British actor Jonathan Bailey, known for Bridgerton and Wicked, who received the title in 2025 and became its first openly gay recipient.
Previous honorees include Patrick Dempsey, Chris Evans, Paul Rudd, Michael B. Jordan, John Legend and Idris Elba.
Wyle now joins the list of actors and entertainers recognized by the magazine through its annual feature.
Photo: Instagram/therealnoahwyle
