American actor Patrick Dempsey, known to the public for the series “Grey’s Anatomy”, was recognized on Tuesday by People magazine as the “Sexiest Man Alive” in 2023, Reuters reports, citing Agerpres.

Dempsey, 57, said he was “completely shocked” when he heard the news and thought it was a joke. “I’ve always been a maid of honor,” he commented.

The actor admitted that he’s happy and that his ego has been flattered, saying that at the same time, the recognition gives him an opportunity to “use it for something positive,” according to a People magazine cover story.

Dempsey’s popularity has grown over the years, from playing neurosurgeon Derek “McDreamy” Shepherd in nearly 250 episodes of Grey’s Anatomy to a modern-day prince in the 2007 musical Charmed.

Dempsey will be seen in a biopic in January Ferrari, directed by Michael Mann, in which he will play Italian Formula 1 driver Piero Taruffi. The cast also includes Adam Driver and Penelope Cruz. The driver will play the legendary Enzo Ferrari in the film, which will be released on January 5.

Last year, People magazine named the American actor Chris Evans, known for his role as “Captain America”, the “Sexiest Man Alive”.