People magazine named Noah Wyle its 2026 Sexiest Man Alive on October 27, announcing the selection in a cover interview.
Wyle, 55, told the magazine he initially thought the news was a joke. He said his wife, Sara, encouraged him to accept the recognition.
The actor is known for playing physicians in two television dramas spanning different generations: ER, which began in the 1990s, and The Pitt. ABC’s WPVI newsroom also reported the selection.
The magazine’s interview was conducted by editor-in-chief Charlotte Triggs. Wyle discussed his career and the reactions he expected from friends and family.
The title represents People’s annual editorial selection, rather than an acting award or a public election.
Sources: People announcement, October 27: https://people.com/noah-wyle-is-the-sexiest-man-alive-2026-12189498 WPVI reporting via ABC7: https://abc7ny.com/post/noah-wyle-named-people-magazines-sexiest-man-alive/19984559/