'The Pitt' Actor Gets Crowned Sexiest Man of 2026

Noah Wyle, star of The Pitt, was named the Sexiest Man Alive of 2026 by People magazine. The actor, who plays Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch in the medical drama, received the title 41 years after the publication's traditional award was created in 1985 with Mel Gibson as the first winner.

In an interview with People, Wyle reacted with surprise to the announcement. “I thought that sounded like a prank — just not in a million years did I think that this would be an honor bestowed on me,” he stated. In a lighthearted tone, he added: “I hope this changes everything. I hope it’s just wine and roses, milk and honey from here on out. [Laughs] No, I don’t, but I am going to take a lot of ribbing from friends and family for sure”.

The recognition comes at a high point in the actor's career. Wyle won the Emmy for best actor in a drama series in 2025 and 2026 for his work on The Pitt, a show that follows the daily lives of healthcare professionals in an emergency room. Before that, he was already known for playing Dr. John Carter for several seasons on ER .

Wyle succeeds Jonathan Bailey, star of Wicked, chosen by People in 2025. Bailey was the first openly gay man to receive the title. Over the decades, the list has also included names like Patrick Dempsey, Chris Evans, Paul Rudd, Michael B. Jordan, John Legend, and Idris Elba.

Meanwhile, it's worth remembering that season 3 of The Pitt is scheduled to premiere on HBO Max in January 2027.