KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 28 — American actor Noah Wyle, best known for his roles in medical dramas ER and The Pitt, has been named People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2026 at the age of 55.

The announcement marks another milestone for the Emmy-winning actor, whose career has enjoyed a resurgence following the success of HBO’s The Pitt.

In an interview with People magazine, Wyle admitted that he initially struggled to believe he had been selected for the annual title.

“I thought that sounded like a prank — just not in a million years did I think that this would be an honor bestowed on me,” he said.

His wife, Sara, 46, eventually persuaded him to embrace the recognition, telling him that his character as a husband and father made him deserving of the honour.

“She thinks I’m a good guy and that the kind of person that I am and the kind of father I am, the kind of husband I am, is worth promoting,” he told the magazine.

Wyle joked that his wife was particularly pleased with the announcement because it reflected positively on her choice of partner.

The actor, who has three children, Owen, 24, Auden, 21, and Frances, 11, also revealed that his family had reacted with a mixture of amusement and disbelief.

His son warned him that the publicity could attract criticism, while his older daughter was expected to tease him about the title for years to come.

Wyle first rose to prominence in the 1990s as Dr John Carter in the long-running medical drama ER, appearing alongside George Clooney, who subsequently received People’s Sexiest Man Alive title twice.

More than three decades later, Wyle has found renewed success portraying Dr Michael “Robby” Robinavitch in The Pitt, a role that has earned him two consecutive Emmy Awards for outstanding lead actor in a drama series.

The series, which follows healthcare workers at a Pittsburgh emergency department, is scheduled to return for its third season in January 2027.

Reflecting on his career, Wyle said the success of The Pitt had allowed him to approach fame with greater maturity than when he first became a household name through ER.

He also recalled how becoming a father changed his priorities, prompting him to leave ER because he wanted to spend more time with his children.

Despite his Hollywood success, Wyle described himself as a homebody who enjoys preparing breakfast for his family, exercising, reading and walking his dogs.

He also revealed that washing dishes was among his favourite household responsibilities, describing the activity as therapeutic.

“I am the dish maven. The sink is my domain,” he told People.

Speaking about his marriage, Wyle said humour played an important role in maintaining a strong relationship, particularly when dealing with life’s challenges.

He also credited Sara with understanding his emotions and knowing how to comfort him during difficult moments.

Looking back on his personal and professional journey, Wyle said he was especially grateful for his wife, children, parents, friends, colleagues and mentors.