9-11-2023 (LOS ANGELES) Actor Patrick Dempsey, widely recognized for his role in Grey’s Anatomy, has been crowned People magazine’s “sexiest man alive” for 2023, taking over the prestigious title from last year’s honoree, Marvel star Chris Evans.
Dempsey, 57, expressed his complete astonishment upon hearing the news and initially believed it was a jest, humorously remarking, “I’ve always been the bridesmaid.”
He went on to add, “It’s nice to receive the recognition, and while my ego may get a little boost, it also provides me with a platform to utilize it for a positive cause,” as he shared with People in an exclusive cover story.
Patrick Dempsey has seen his popularity surge over the years, partly due to his role in almost 250 episodes of ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy as the charismatic neurosurgeon Derek “McDreamy” Shepherd. He has also left a mark as a contemporary prince charming in the 2007 musical film Enchanted.
Married to makeup artist and founder of a beauty line, Jillian, Dempsey is particularly intrigued by how his children, Talula, aged 21, and his 16-year-old twins, Sullivan and Darby, will respond to his newfound status.
In his words, “They’re just going to make fun of me and tease me, and come up with every possible reason why I shouldn’t be ‘the sexiest man alive.’ But that’s a good thing; they keep me feeling youthful.”
Come December, Patrick Dempsey will grace the silver screen in the biopic Ferrari, directed by Michael Mann. In the film, he will portray Italian Formula One driver Piero Taruffi, alongside actors Adam Driver and Penelope Cruz.
Recounting his experience, Dempsey shared that when he learned about the movie’s production, he took a bold step and contacted Mann directly to inquire about a role. He reflected on the lesson learned from the experience, saying, “If you truly desire something, you have to take the initiative and make it happen.”
One of Dempsey’s notable passion projects is the Dempsey Center, which he established in memory of his late mother. The center is dedicated to providing support to cancer patients and their loved ones. It exemplifies his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the realm of acting.
