People magazine has declared actor Jonathan Bailey as its 2024 Sexiest Man Alive, a title that sparks annual debate and fascination among pop culture enthusiasts. The honour places him in the ranks of previous winners like Brad Pitt (1995 and 2000), Idris Elba (2018), and Chris Evans (2022).
The Selection Process: More Than Just a Pretty Face
How does People magazine make its choice? In a 2012 interview, editor Julie Jordan explained to USA Today that the selection is a year-long process. The staff gauges public sentiment about potential candidates and also consults celebrities for their opinions. This method suggests that the title isn't awarded on looks alone, but on a more complex interplay of qualities.
What Makes Someone 'Sexy'? Experts Weigh In
According to body language expert Blanca Cobb, 'sexiness is in the eye of the beholder.' It's a highly subjective concept composed of various elements. While some people are drawn to physical attributes like facial symmetry, others find a person's voice, scent, or confident body language to be the ultimate turn-on.
Kelsey Latimer, a psychologist, emphasizes the role of biology and evolution. 'There are evolutionary theories that help us understand that physical attraction is important because it makes us want to reproduce,' she said. Certain physical features can be subconsciously linked to fertility, sparking an innate level of attraction.
Beyond Biology: The Power of Personality and Environment
Experts are adamant that a person's character is a huge factor in their perceived sexiness. Confidence, charisma, and an often-undervalued trait—kindness—can significantly amplify a person's appeal. A 2017 study from Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, Canada, confirmed this, finding that participants in a speed-dating event were rated as more attractive if they were considered funny.
Our environment and culture also shape our ideals of attractiveness. What is considered sexy in one country or generation can be completely different in another. 'Trends vary a lot based on time, generation, culture, location, and age,' Latimer noted, confirming that there is no universal standard for sexiness.
The conclusion from the experts is clear: there is no single, definitive marker for what makes someone sexy. It's a unique and personal combination of biology, personality, and cultural influence. But based on the public and celebrity opinion gathered by People, Jonathan Bailey perfectly embodies that elusive mix for 2024.
