Dr. Robby Gets the Crown: Noah Wyle Is 2026's Sexiest Man Alive
People magazine named its 2026 Sexiest Man Alive on Tuesday morning: Noah Wyle, the 55-year-old star of HBO Max's hospital drama The Pitt.
Wyle's honest reaction is the best part. He told People that when he heard the news, it sounded like a prank, and that he never in a million years expected this honor. He joked that he hopes it's all wine and roses from here, then admitted he's mostly expecting a lot of teasing from friends and family. He also said his wife, Sara, thinks the husband and father he is deserves the spotlight. She's apparently pleased it reflects well on her taste.
The timing makes sense. Last month, The Pitt won the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series, and Wyle won Lead Actor in a Drama for playing Dr Michael "Robby" Robinavich, a show he also directs. For many people, he's been a TV doctor since ER in the '90s, so this feels like a long-running role finally getting its moment.
He takes over from Wicked star Jonathan Bailey, last year's pick. The title started in 1985 with Mel Gibson, and this is its 41st year. Past winners include Patrick Dempsey, Chris Evans, Paul Rudd, Michael B. Jordan and Idris Elba.
Not everyone online is celebrating. Prediction market Kalshi had Wyle at around 79% before the reveal, so it wasn't a shock. Still, plenty of X users pushed back, saying fan favorites like Bad Bunny were the more obvious choice. Some cited earlier criticism of his political views. His name and The Pitt were both trending in the US this morning.
