Idris Elba has been named People’s sexiest man alive—and here’s why it’s a big deal

Welp, better late than never. Idris Elba has long been considered one of the sexiest men alive, and now it’s official. The actor was named People’s Sexiest Man Alive on Tuesday, November 6th, meaning fans all over the word can finally breathe a sigh of relief. The Thor actor took to Twitter to share his sexy new title, also reminding U.S. fans of their civic duty to go out and vote in the November 6th midterm elections. (Now that’s sexy.)

Who'd have thought it! Thank you @people & all the fans for naming me #SexiestManAlive. Don't forget to grab your issue this week https://t.co/WI7eWfXOPB. I'm honoured & thankful. What’s even more important is your vote in the midterm elections. Your vote can make a difference!👊🏾 pic.twitter.com/TBQapjxJsT

— Idris Elba (@idriselba) November 6, 2018

Talk about a man who can do both: Elba has been one of the internet’s favorite boyfriends for years (and a dream pick for the next James Bond). However, the actor told People he was surprised to be receiving the honor.

“I was like, ‘Come on, no way. Really?' the Luther star said. “Looked in the mirror, I checked myself out. I was like, ‘Yeah, you are kind of sexy today.’ But to be honest, it was just a nice feeling. It was a nice surprise—an ego boost for sure.

Elba is only the third non-white man to receive the title in the 33 years the magazine has awarded it. He joins Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (2016), and Denzel Washington (1996). While it’s wholly disappointing that men of color are so egregiously underrepresented on this list, we also can’t think of anyone more deserving this year.

Here’s hoping Elba keeps his Sexiest Man Alive issue next to his Golden Globe and his OBE medal.