How Many MCU Actors Have Been People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive?
People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive is an annual feature representing the epitome of male attractiveness and, in more recent years, career accomplishment, social relevance, philanthropic endeavors, and more. From Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to Pierce Brosnan, several Hollywood A-Listers have graced the cover of People for this famous feature. And, as quickly as the glory comes, it fades. For, the very next year, since 1985, someone new is selected. And, it just so happens that a handful of Marvel Cinematic Universe stars have graced the cover of the magazine. So, who among the Marvel stars have been elected People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive?
The MCU stars who made the cut: The smokin’ Avengers and villains
1. Bradley Cooper / Rocket Raccoon
Bradley Cooper won People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive in 2011. The handsome star of the then-popular Hangover franchise portrays Rocket Raccoon in the MCU, and he has appeared in both Guardians of the Galaxy installments and Infinity War and Endgame. Rocket Raccoon is the quick-talking wise guy with a heart of gold whose surface-level indifference isn’t fooling anyone!
2. Idris Elba / Heimdall
Idris Elba plays one of the characters who deserved more time in the spotlight, as his comic book legacy warranted a bit more filmic relevance. However, fans were still happy to see Elba play a character so important to Thor in the films. The all-seeing and all-hearing protector of the Bifröst in Asgard, Idris Elba was awarded the Sexiest Man Alive title in 2018.
3. Chris Hemsworth / Thor
Chris Hemsworth is best known for playing the God of Thunder in the MCU. Appearing in all Thor installments and every Avenger movie mash-up, he went on to become one of the fans’ favorite superheroes. Hemsworth was selected as People’s Sexiest Man Alive in 2014. Who knows, maybe his younger brother will one day snag the honor, leading to two sexiest man alive titles within the Hemsworth family.
4. Jude Law / Yon-Rogg
Jude Law portrays good guy turned bad guy Yon-Rogg in Captain Marvel. Jude Law became the Sexiest Man Alive back in 2004. At that point, Law had already starred in Cold Mountain, Gattaca, A.I. Artificial Intelligence, and more. He now is well-known for starring across from MCU legend Robert Downey Jr. in the Sherlock Homles franchise.
Honorable mentions (Marvel characters)
1. Ryan Reynolds / Deadpool: Now that the Fox/Disney merger has placed Deadpool in Kevin Feige’s care, the Merc with a Mouth is technically part of the MCU. However, until he appears in an installment under the Disney umbrella, he will remain in the honorable mentions section. He was selected Sexiest Man Alive 2010.
2. Hugh Jackman / Wolverine: Wolverine is one of the most iconic X-Men characters, but he remains part of the Marvel/Fox world, unconnected to the MCU narrative and timeline. He earned the People Magazine honor in 2008. Hugh Jackman remains active in Hollywood, as well as on Broadway. He’s a singing, dancing, and acting genius with more charisma in his pinky than most people have in their entire body.
