John Krasinski wasn’t People’s first choice for 'Sexiest Man Alive,' with A-listers declining

John Krasinski’s selection as People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” reportedly came after actors Glen Powell and Pedro Pascal declined the title, according to an insider who spoke with DailyMail.com. The source claimed that People magazine “begged both of them to accept,” but was “continuously shut down.” Powell, 36, and Pascal, 49, turned down the offer due to personal priorities at this stage in their careers.

“John is a great guy but in no way was he their number-one choice,” the insider revealed, explaining that People initially approached Powell, known for Twisters, and Pascal, who stars in Gladiator II. “Glen wants to make more of an impact in acting,” the source shared, while Pascal reportedly “sees the gimmick of it all” and doesn’t feel the title aligns with his goals.

Krasinski’s announcement, made on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, sparked mixed reactions. Some fans questioned the decision, with one user commenting, “John Krasinski as the sexiest man alive? Hmmmm I’m not sure,” while others showed support. “I think he’s sexy…maybe not the sexiest, but he is smart and funny,” one fan wrote.

Krasinski admitted he was surprised by the honor, saying, “I thought I was being punked.” His wife, Emily Blunt, 41, was “very excited” when she heard the news, adding a lighthearted touch to the reveal. Representatives for People, Powell, and Pascal have not commented on the report.