Every year, People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive announcement stirs up excitement, debates, and sometimes, a bit of controversy. In a surprise twist for 2024, Grammy-winning producer Benny Blanco, known for his relationship with pop sensation Selena Gomez, has made the list of nominees, sparking divided reactions across social media. While some fans applaud his personality and charm, others question how he landed in the lineup traditionally reserved for Hollywood’s leading heartthrobs.
The Sexiest Man Alive Tradition: From Heartthrobs to Unconventional Choices
The Sexiest Man Alive title is no minor accolade. Since Mel Gibson became the first recipient in 1985, the award has recognized actors like Patrick Dempsey, Idris Elba, Michael B. Jordan, and Chris Evans, cementing their statuses as Hollywood icons. Each year, fans wait eagerly to see which star embodies charm, talent, and sex appeal, but Benny Blanco’s nomination marks a shift from the typical movie star profile.
Benny Blanco, real name Benjamin Joseph Levin, may not fit the traditional “sexiest man” mold. However, the producer—who has worked with major artists and maintains a quirky social media presence—seems to be redefining what it means to be attractive. People magazine lauded him as a man who “redefines masculinity while embracing chivalry,” highlighting his cooking skills and romantic gestures.
Benny Blanco and Selena Gomez: The Relationship That Put Him in the Spotlight
Though Benny Blanco has long been a prominent figure in the music industry, his relationship with Selena Gomez has given fans a deeper look into his personal life. Since they became romantically linked in 2023, the couple has shared snippets of their time together, showing a playful yet supportive relationship. In his recent interview, Benny described Selena as his best friend and spoke about their shared love of early mornings.
“I’m a real morning person,” he shared. “It’s my favorite time to spend with Sel because we both wake up really early. It’s like our moment before the rest of the world wakes up.”
Benny even revealed his Valentine’s Day surprises for Selena, including Taco Bell, homemade nachos, and deep-fried pickles, proving that his charm lies in his down-to-earth personality and unique romantic gestures.
Social Media Backlash: Fans React to Benny’s Nomination
News of Benny’s nomination didn’t sit well with everyone, especially on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where fans voiced their surprise, humor, and, for some, outright confusion. While Benny’s nomination was enough to catch people’s attention, the response was swift and often humorous.
- One user joked, “If People named Benny Blanco as one of the sexiest men alive, I’m scared who they’re going to announce for the official title tomorrow.”
- Another user didn’t hold back, quipping, “I think People magazine has been running an elaborate, long-running joke on us for all these years, and this is the first time it was too obvious.”
- A particularly blunt comment read, “Benny Blanco as sexiest man alive?? Like… did they pull names out of a hat orrr?”
While it’s clear some fans don’t quite see Benny as fitting the “sexiest man” stereotype, the lighthearted responses suggest that most viewers are taking the nomination with a sense of humor.
Fans Defend Benny Blanco: “Sexy Is More Than Just Looks”
Benny Blanco for PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive 2024 issue. pic.twitter.com/kMR1pR90wf
— Pop Base (@PopBase) November 11, 2024
Not everyone found Benny’s nomination surprising. Some fans rallied to his defense, arguing that his talent, kindness, and devotion to Selena Gomez are what make him appealing. These supporters believe that the “Sexiest Man Alive” title should recognize qualities beyond appearance.
One Twitter user chimed in, “Y’all are roasting Benny Blanco because he pulled a baddie in Selena Gomez & y’all think ‘sexy’ is based on looks.” Another fan highlighted his charm, adding, “He’s a musician, he cooks, and he’s a genuinely good person. Leave this man alone.”
This shift in perspective suggests that Benny’s nomination might represent a broader redefinition of masculinity, with more fans valuing traits like creativity, thoughtfulness, and humor.
Benny Blanco’s Unconventional Appeal: Redefining Masculinity in the Spotlight
In the past, Sexiest Man Alive honorees have typically been actors or athletes known for their physical appeal. Benny Blanco, on the other hand, brings an unconventional charm. Known for his laid-back style, love of food, and an ability to make people laugh, Benny’s allure lies in his authenticity.
During his photoshoot for People, Benny posed in a three-piece suit on a table scattered with pizza and margaritas—a playful image that breaks away from the usual Hollywood glamor. Another photo showed him lounging in pajamas while cuddling a teddy bear, a nod to his quirky and relatable personality. In a world where social media often pressures public figures to be perfect, Benny’s authenticity might be exactly what makes him appealing to some fans.
The Power of Personality: Why Authenticity Matters More Than Ever
Benny’s nomination also highlights a cultural shift towards valuing personality over perfection. While he may not fit the typical Hollywood aesthetic, his ability to charm fans and show genuine love for his girlfriend proves that attractiveness isn’t one-size-fits-all.
People’s choice to feature Benny aligns with a larger trend of redefining masculinity. With his cooking skills, his goofy humor, and his willingness to embrace vulnerability, Benny represents a refreshing change in what it means to be desirable. Fans and critics alike may debate the choice, but Benny’s personality-driven appeal is an undeniable part of his charm.
Selena Gomez’s Influence: How Her Support and Relationship with Benny Bolstered His Image
Selena Gomez, one of the biggest pop stars in the world, has lent her support to Benny and brought him into the public eye in a new way. As one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures, Selena’s partnership with Benny has highlighted his sweeter side, which fans have come to appreciate.
Their relationship has shown that he’s not just a talented producer but also a thoughtful and creative partner. The Valentine’s Day date he described in the People interview—a night filled with Selena’s favorite foods—revealed a side of Benny that’s as caring as it is relatable. Through these shared moments, fans see why Selena has been charmed by him, and, in turn, some fans see a new side to Benny that makes him worthy of recognition.
A Love Story Celebrated in the Spotlight
As the public awaits People’s final announcement for Sexiest Man Alive, it’s safe to say that Benny Blanco’s nomination will be remembered as a unique and divisive moment. The conversation around him reflects broader societal changes in how people define attractiveness and masculinity.
Some fans find his quirky, grounded nature refreshing, while others might never understand the nomination. Yet, at the heart of this story is Benny’s love for Selena Gomez and his unapologetic embrace of his own personality. By staying true to himself, Benny has created a new blueprint for what it means to be desirable, proving that love, kindness, and humor can be just as attractive as a Hollywood physique.
Conclusion: Benny Blanco’s Surprising Nomination Redefines What It Means to Be Sexy
Benny Blanco’s nomination for Sexiest Man Alive may have stirred up debate, but it’s also sparked an important conversation about personality, authenticity, and redefining masculinity. With his humorous charm, culinary skills, and devotion to Selena Gomez, Benny reminds fans that the definition of “sexy” is evolving. For some, he’s an unlikely choice, while for others, he’s a refreshing change from Hollywood’s usual suspects. Whether or not he wins the title, Benny has left an indelible mark on this year’s list, proving that sometimes, the most attractive qualities aren’t the most obvious ones.
