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5 Reasons Why Benny Blanco's 'Sexiest Man Alive' Feature Sparked A Massive Internet Firestorm

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The internet is still buzzing about music mega-producer Benny Blanco's unexpected inclusion in *People* magazine's annual Sexiest Man Alive issue, a feature that dropped in late 2024. The news, which quickly went viral, ignited a firestorm of reactions, memes, and confusion across social media platforms, turning the usually celebratory feature into a major pop culture moment. As of today, December 22, 2025, the debate continues over whether the quirky, often-controversial producer truly embodies the title's traditional appeal, or if his feature is a clever commentary on modern celebrity and unconventional charm. The discussion gained even more traction due to his high-profile relationship with global superstar Selena Gomez, who publicly celebrated his nod, fueling both support and intense online scrutiny of the producer's newfound status as a "sexy gentleman."

Benny Blanco: A Profile in Pop Music Dominance

Before his controversial entry into the "Sexiest Man Alive" conversation, Benny Blanco was already a titan of the music industry. Born Benjamin Joseph Levin on March 8, 1988, in Reston, Virginia, Blanco has quietly shaped the sound of pop music for over a decade. His career is marked by an astonishing list of hits and collaborations that solidify his standing as one of the most successful producers and songwriters of his generation.
  • Full Name: Benjamin Joseph Levin
  • Born: March 8, 1988 (Age: 37 in 2025)
  • Hometown: Reston, Virginia, U.S.
  • Profession: Record Producer, Songwriter, Musician, Author
  • Career Start: Began his career mentored by producer Dr. Luke.
  • Global Impact: Responsible for selling over 100 million albums worldwide.
  • Notable Collaborations (Entities):
    • Ed Sheeran ("Castle on the Hill," "Don't")
    • Justin Bieber ("Love Yourself," "Lonely")
    • Rihanna ("Diamonds")
    • Katy Perry ("Teenage Dream," "California Gurls")
    • Maroon 5 ("Moves Like Jagger," "Payphone")
    • Halsey ("Eastside")
    • Kanye West
    • The Weeknd
    • SZA
    • Jessie J
    • Wiz Khalifa
  • Other Ventures: Released the cookbook *Open Wide: A Cookbook for Friends* in 2024.

The Truth About Benny Blanco and People's Sexiest Man Alive Title

The core of the online controversy stems from a simple, yet widely misunderstood, detail: Benny Blanco was not named *People*'s official "Sexiest Man Alive" for 2024. The annual *People* magazine issue features a main cover star who is given the singular title (in 2024, this was not Blanco). However, the magazine also includes a large, multi-page spread and a "shortlist" of other men who are celebrated for their charisma, talent, and, yes, sex appeal. Benny Blanco was featured prominently in this exclusive section of the 2024 issue. His feature included an exclusive interview where he shared his "rules for being a gentleman" and offered a few "sexy gentleman" tips. This inclusion, rather than the main title, was enough to send the internet into a frenzy. The confusion over whether he was *the* winner or just *featured* fueled the initial wave of memes and hot takes.

The Unconventional Charm and Viral Backlash

The reaction to Blanco's feature was immediate and polarized. While his fans celebrated his growing public profile, a significant portion of the internet reacted with "rage and confusion." The producer, known for his unkempt hair, casual style, and often goofy public persona, does not fit the mold of the typical, conventionally handsome celebrity often chosen for the honor.

1. Subverting Traditional Sex Appeal

The most common reaction was disbelief that a man who often posts videos of himself cooking in a messy kitchen or wearing oversized, casual clothes could be considered one of the "Sexiest Men Alive." Critics argued that *People* was either mocking the concept or making a statement about expanding the definition of sexiness. This subversion of the traditional Hollywood aesthetic was the primary source of the "roasting" he received online.

2. The 'How Much Did Selena Pay For This?' Theory

The timing of the feature, coming shortly after his relationship with Selena Gomez became public, led to the viral, tongue-in-cheek theory that his girlfriend was somehow responsible for his inclusion. While completely unsubstantiated, comments like "How Much Did Selena Pay For This?" became a popular meme, highlighting the public's perception that his star power was intrinsically linked to the A-list actress.

3. Selena Gomez's Proud Celebration

Far from ignoring the noise, Selena Gomez leaned into the moment. She publicly celebrated her boyfriend's achievement, posting her pride on her Instagram Stories. Her romantic reaction served as a powerful endorsement, suggesting that his appeal lies in his authentic, unfiltered personality—the same qualities that critics were questioning. Her support turned the entire episode into a viral couple-goals moment for their fans, shifting the narrative from confusion to a celebration of unconventional love.

4. The Rise of the 'Sexy Gentleman'

In his feature, Blanco offered a list of rules for being a "sexy gentleman," a concept that seems to be the magazine's way of framing his appeal. His tips focused less on physical appearance and more on behavior and character, including being a good listener, making a woman feel safe, and showing up on time. This focus on emotional intelligence and respect resonated with many, suggesting that the modern definition of "sexy" is evolving beyond just looks to include kindness and personality.

5. A Masterclass in Topical Authority and Buzz

Ultimately, Benny Blanco's feature, regardless of the backlash, was a massive success in generating buzz and topical authority. The sheer volume of online discussion, the countless articles written, and the viral memes solidified his position not just as a behind-the-scenes music producer but as a front-facing pop culture figure. This kind of organic, chaotic virality is invaluable in the modern media landscape, proving that sometimes, being controversial is more impactful than being conventionally accepted. The "Benny Blanco Sexiest Man Alive" moment became a cultural touchstone, proving that his unique brand of charm—or "unconventional allure"—is impossible to ignore.
benny blanco sexiest man alive
benny blanco sexiest man alive

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