Black Actors Deserving of Sexiest Man Alive

Noah Wyle was just named PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2026, and while we’re sure he’s a nice guy, we have some questions. Somewhere between Sterling K. Brown’s smile, Mahershala Ali’s swagger, and Aaron Pierre’s presence, it feels like the fine Black men of Hollywood got overlooked. The talent pool in entertainment isn’t in short supply, which is exactly why we rounded up a list of deserving candidates who belong in that conversation.

Check out our picks below, and see if Noah Wyle really should be sitting this one out.

Sterling K. Brown

Anyone who’s met Sterling K. Brown will tell you the same thing: the man’s got looks, charm, and a personality that draws people in. He’s also a devoted husband to Ryan and a fantastic father. So why isn’t he in the conversation?

Morris Chestnut

We’ve been making the case for Morris Chestnut since he played Lance Sullivan in “The Best Man” back in the ’90s. His turn as a smooth doctor on “Watson” and a sharp attorney on “Reasonable Doubt” should’ve sealed the deal by now. Clearly, we need to campaign harder.

Tank

Singer Tank may be playing a villain this season on “Reasonable Doubt,” but his smooth vocals have been making women fall for him since “Force of Nature” dropped in the early 2000s. And his looks? That’s a whole other conversation. The man is serious eye candy.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II had quite the year between “Wonder Man,” “Man on Fire,” and “By Any Means.” He’s got the face, the physique, and the presence. Why hasn’t he gotten his moment yet?

Mahershala Ali

We’ve loved Mahershala Ali for years, but seeing him dominate in “Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother” this fall hit different. That smirk alone should qualify him. The man’s face card is unmatched.

Aaron Pierre

Aaron Pierre was obviously going to make this list. Remember that Spirit Tunnel walk on “The Jennifer Hudson Show”? The internet didn’t let us forget it. Now that he’s gone green in “Lanterns,” the momentum keeps building. He feels like a no-brainer pick.

Cornell Young IV

The new “A Different World” star Cornell Young IV has been impossible to ignore since the show premiered in September. The reaction every time he posts a photo or video is telling. Those eyes, the hair, the whole presence. He’s got the complete package and looks ready to claim his spot.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge brought a whole new energy to Alex Cross on “Cross,” and the response from audiences has been real. His gym posts and red carpet appearances consistently have people weak in the knees. That’s precisely why he belongs on this list.

LaRoyce Hawkins

“Chicago P.D.” fans said goodbye to Officer Kevin Atwater earlier this month, but we’re not ready to let LaRoyce Hawkins go. We need him back on our screens sooner rather than later, but in the meantime, this recognition will do.

Regé-Jean Page

Seeing Regé-Jean Page lean into the charm in “You, Me, & Tuscany” earlier this year was a moment. His performance was warm, his look was sharp, and honestly, it makes no sense that he hasn’t landed on this list yet.

Method Man

Do we even need to explain this one? Look at him.

Shamier Anderson

Shamier Anderson shifts the energy when he enters a room, and it’s not just because of his looks. The man carries himself with a quiet confidence and style that commands respect. That’s worth noting.

Trevante Rhodes

Trevante Rhodes may keep a low profile, but that shouldn’t overshadow his good looks. This year marks a decade since “Moonlight” introduced him to audiences. That stellar performance, paired with his smile, deserves recognition that lasts another 10 years.