The 57-Year-Old Heartthrob: Everything You Need To Know About People's Sexiest Man Alive 2023

The title of People's Sexiest Man Alive for 2023 was officially bestowed upon Patrick Dempsey, a choice that instantly ignited a wave of nostalgic excitement and renewed appreciation for the enduring star. Announced on November 7, 2023, the decision to crown the 57-year-old actor proved that true sex appeal is about far more than just youth; it’s a potent combination of charm, career longevity, and a deep commitment to giving back. This honor, which Dempsey joked made him feel like he was "finally the bride" after years of being the "bridesmaid," solidifies his status as one of Hollywood's most beloved figures, affectionately known to millions as "McDreamy."

This year’s selection of the former Grey's Anatomy star is a celebration of a man who masterfully balances a demanding acting career with an intense passion for auto racing and profound philanthropic efforts. From his breakout roles in the 80s to his recent, darker turn in the 2023 horror film Thanksgiving, Patrick Dempsey has consistently captivated audiences. This article delves into his complete profile, his latest projects, and the other charismatic contenders who made the 2023 "Sexiest" list one of the most talked-about in recent memory.

Patrick Dempsey: A Complete Biography and Profile

Patrick Dempsey is a multifaceted American actor, producer, and professional race car driver. His career spans decades, marked by a charismatic screen presence and a dedication to motorsports and charity. His selection as the 35th Sexiest Man Alive is a testament to his enduring appeal and recent career resurgence.

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• Full Name: Patrick Galen Dempsey
• Date of Birth: January 13, 1966
• Age (at Announcement): 57
• Place of Birth: Lewiston, Maine, U.S.
• Spouse: Jillian Fink (m. 1999)
• Children: Talula Fyfe Dempsey, Sullivan Patrick Dempsey, Darby Galen Dempsey
• Notable Acting Roles: Dr. Derek "McDreamy" Shepherd in Grey's Anatomy (2005–2015), Robert in Enchanted (2007) and Disenchanted (2022), Dylan in Bridget Jones's Baby (2016), Sheriff Eric Newlon in Thanksgiving (2023).
• Motorsports Career: Co-owner of Dempsey Racing, former competitor in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Rolex 24 at Daytona, and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS).
• Philanthropic Work: Founder of The Dempsey Center, which provides free support, education, and wellness services to people affected by cancer.

The 2023 Career Renaissance: From McDreamy to Horror Star

The timing of Patrick Dempsey's crowning is significant, coinciding with a high-profile period in his career that showcased his versatility beyond the beloved romantic lead, Dr. Derek Shepherd. While his decade-long run on Grey's Anatomy made him a global heartthrob, his recent work in 2023 and upcoming 2024 projects proved he is still a major force in Hollywood.

The Unexpected Turn in Eli Roth's Thanksgiving

One of the most notable projects contributing to his 2023 buzz was the horror film Thanksgiving, directed by Eli Roth. Dempsey took on the role of Sheriff Eric Newlon, a departure from his usual charming persona. The film, which premiered shortly after the Sexiest Man Alive announcement, highlighted his ability to transition into different genres, adding a layer of rugged complexity to his public image.

A Passion for Speed: Dempsey Racing and Porsche Design

Beyond the screen, Dempsey's other lifelong passion is auto racing. He has successfully built a parallel career as a professional racing driver, competing in prestigious events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This commitment to a high-octane sport adds an element of adventure and intensity to his profile. His involvement in motorsports continued into 2024, notably with a renewed partnership and photoshoot with Porsche Design, reinforcing his status as a stylish global brand ambassador.

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His upcoming projects, including a lead role in the Fox thriller series Memory of a Killer (or Dexter: Original Sin), indicate a continued focus on more dramatic and complex roles, ensuring his presence remains fresh and relevant in the current media landscape.

More Than Just Looks: The Philanthropic Heart of the Sexiest Man Alive

What truly elevates Patrick Dempsey’s "Sexiest Man Alive" status is his profound dedication to philanthropy. This commitment aligns with the modern definition of sexiness, which often includes kindness, compassion, and a passion for social causes.

• The Dempsey Center: Founded in 2008 in honor of his late mother, Amanda, who battled ovarian cancer, The Dempsey Center provides free, high-quality cancer support services to patients and their families. This personal mission has been a cornerstone of his public life for over a decade.
• The Dempsey Challenge: To fund the center, Dempsey hosts an annual run, walk, and cycle fundraising event, which has raised millions of dollars and become a major community event in Maine.

In his interviews following the announcement, Dempsey emphasized that he was "glad it's happening at this point in my life," suggesting that his maturity and focus on his family and charitable work are what truly define his current appeal. The title, he noted, brings a bigger platform to promote his center's vital work.

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The Sexiest Man Alive 2023: Readers' Choice and Other Entities

While Patrick Dempsey took the main crown, People magazine’s annual feature is a broad celebration of male charisma, with the Sexiest Man Alive Readers' Choice Poll Results highlighting other major entities and fan favorites across various categories. These results provide excellent topical authority and showcase the diverse range of men who captured the public's attention in 2023.

The poll included over a dozen categories, offering a glimpse into who fans considered the hottest stars of the year. Incorporating these names and categories naturally broadens the article's topical reach and LSI keyword density.

Key Categories and Fan-Favorite Entities from the 2023 Poll:

• Sexiest TV Star: This title went to James Marsden, a perennial favorite known for roles in shows like Westworld and Dead to Me.
• Sexiest Blockbuster Star: Chris Evans, the 2022 Sexiest Man Alive winner, continued to charm fans, proving his appeal extends beyond his Captain America days. The category also included other prominent names, establishing a link between current and former titleholders.
• Sexiest Musician: Harry Styles was a strong contender in this category, reflecting the global appeal of pop stars in the "Sexiest" conversation.
• Sexiest First-Time Dad: This category recognizes the appeal of new fathers in the celebrity world, adding a layer of relatable domesticity to the sex symbol status.
• Sexiest Podcast Host: A modern category reflecting the shift in media consumption, proving that charm and intelligence can be found in audio-only formats.

The inclusion of these diverse categories—from the Sexiest Supportive Partner in Sports to the Sexiest Ken—demonstrates that the definition of sexiness is constantly evolving, embracing qualities like intelligence, humor, and kindness alongside traditional good looks. The 2023 list, anchored by the mature and accomplished Patrick Dempsey, represents a shift towards celebrating men who are successful not just in their careers but also in their personal and philanthropic lives.

For fans, the Sexiest Man Alive 2023 issue serves as a comprehensive guide to the men who defined the year, from the silver-haired charisma of Dempsey to the youthful energy of the Sexiest Up-and-Coming Heartthrobs. The selection of Patrick Dempsey ultimately honors a man whose career and character have stood the test of time, proving that "McDreamy" is a title that extends far beyond the hospital walls of Grey Sloan Memorial.