John Luther, Nelson Mandela, Stringer Bell, Heimdall the Asgardian sentry, and possibly even James Bond: Idris Elba is a man used to iconic roles. But perhaps not his latest one.
(Related: Idris Elba was born to play James Bond. Here’s why)
People Magazine has just voted the 46-year-old actor, DJ and director 2018’s sexiest man alive.
Speaking to the publication after finding out he’d won the award, Elba said: “I was like, “Come on, no way. Really?”‘
(Related: Idris says it’s time for a black, female Bond)
He continued: “Looked in the mirror, I checked myself out. I was like, ‘Yeah, you are kind of sexy today.’ But to be honest, it was just a nice feeling. It was a nice surprise — an ego boost for sure.”
Fighting off strong competition in the form of Men’s Health cover models Jason Momoa, Chris Pratt and Michael B Jordan, Elba proved that where sex appeal is concerned, age is only a good thing.
Elba is seven years older than both Momoa and Pratt and 15 years older than Jordan.
(Related: This is the age men reach their style peak)
He does however join esteemed company as the list of former winners includes several other MH cover stars.
In 2016 The Rock took the title, while in 2015 it went to David Beckham and in 2014 it was Chris Hemsworth. Previous winners also include Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman.
Want to be voted sexiest man alive? Best start by making it onto our front cover.
