Patrick Dempsey, famously known as McDreamy from his iconic role as Derek Shepherd in the acclaimed series Grey’s Anatomy, has clinched the coveted title of PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive for the year 2023.
At 57, and with over three decades entrenched in the Hollywood landscape, Dempsey gracefully accepts the recognition, sharing, “I’m glad it’s happening at this point in my life.”
His elation at this accolade, a title that acknowledges not only his charm but also his enduring talent, resonates deeply within him.
The acknowledgment is not just a boost to his ego, but Dempsey views it as an opportunity to leverage his platform for positive endeavors. “It’s nice to have the recognition, and certainly my ego takes a little bump, but it gives me the platform to use it for something positive,” he tells PEOPLE.
It’s about time! Patrick Dempsey has been waiting for this moment. #SexiestManAlive https://t.co/4eYnCAG1Zr pic.twitter.com/AIJZtGeeIP
— People (@people) November 8, 2023
For the seasoned actor, the recognition arrives as a means to support causes and initiatives close to his heart, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Dempsey now joins the illustrious league of past Sexiest Men Alive, an esteemed group that includes luminaries such as Chris Evans, Paul Rudd, Michael B. Jordan, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, John Legend, Idris Elba, Chris Hemsworth, and Channing Tatum. His journey to this pinnacle involved not just his acting prowess but also his commitment to meaningful causes beyond the silver screen.
In 2023, the celebrated actor marks his return to the big screen with the highly anticipated biopic, Ferrari, directed by Michael Mann. In the movie, Dempsey portrays Piero Taruffi, an Italian Formula One driver, showcasing a different facet of his acting repertoire. Reflecting on his involvement in the film, he shares, “I’d been following the movie for years, so I called Michael and said, ‘I want to discuss being a part of this.’ That taught me if you really want something, you have to do it yourself.”
Beyond his acting career, Dempsey’s commitment to philanthropy shines through. As a dedicated husband and father of three, he established the Dempsey Center, a testament to his love for his late mother and a profound dedication to supporting cancer patients and their families.
Humorously acknowledging his recent achievement, Dempsey jests, “I’ve got the bumper stickers, T-shirts, posters.” His lighthearted approach to the fame and attention is a reminder of his down-to-earth nature, despite the glamorous title he now rightfully holds.
Patrick Dempsey, the epitome of charisma and talent, has not only captivated audiences on-screen but has also solidified his place as an individual dedicated to making a meaningful impact, further adding to his allure as PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2023.
