top of page

Too old to handle?

Why People magazine should listen to me.


Written by Izzy Aparicio



Beginning in 1985, one award has never been so prestigious and yet so controversial. And no, I am not talking about best picture at the Oscars, the Nobel Peace Prize or artist of the year at the Grammys. I’m talking about the coveted title of People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive.


Every year, I anxiously await who People magazine will announce as their sexiest man, and, every year, I am thoroughly disappointed. The likes of Ryan Reynolds, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Patrick Dempsey, Hugh Jackman and George Clooney have graced the cover of this magazine, with some arguing rightfully so. But I have to ask, where is the youth? When will a younger man be given the crown? 


Maybe People’s judging criteria has not changed since the ‘80s or they are appealing to their older demographic. Whatever it is, it is not working. So, here I am to recommend some alternatives to the almost decrepit Hollywood faces we have become accustomed to. 


My recommendations:


My top pick:


Paul Mescal. 


Mescal is a young, handsome, a great actor, almost universally beloved and will soon be nominated for best actor at the Oscars for his performance in the upcoming “Gladiator II.” Also, Irish is in. He wouldn’t be too far out of their wheelhouse, but still, give the younger people what they want.


The long shot:


Lorenzo Zurzolo. 


Who said People’s sexiest man had to be an American? Zurzolo, an Italian actor, is my wild card pick. 


Realistic choice:


Pedro Pascal. 


People truly could not go wrong with this pick. Pascal is within the age demographic that People usually picks from, but not too out of the pop culture realm that Generation Z would not find the choice appealing. 


Will any of these be People’s 2024 Sexiest Man Alive? Most likely, no. In my opinion, however, they must take them into consideration for the future.

Recent Posts

See All
bottom of page