Selena Gomez’s partner has always felt “confident” growing up, thanks to his family who helped keep him grounded. Recently, he stirred up social media as users voiced disapproval over his selection as part of this year’s “Sexiest Man Alive” roster.
Selena Gomez’s boyfriend, Benny Blanco, was hailed one of the sexiest in People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” issue for 2024, sparking online controversy. Despite the backlash, he’s more than just a headline—he’s a Hall of Famer who sees a future with Gomez.

Selena Gomez at the MTV Video Music Awards on September 12, 2023, in Newark, New Jersey. | Source: Getty Images
Speaking to People for his Sexiest Man Alive feature, Blanco candidly opened up about his rules for being a sexy gentleman. Reflecting on his roots in Virginia, he shared, “I always felt pretty confident. My mom was like, ‘You’re the best,’ and my brother was always so sweet to me. He always paved the way, always made sure people were nice to me.”

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco in an embrace, dated August 8, 2024 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez

Benny Blanco and Selena Gomez pictured with unidentified individuals, dated February 13, 2024 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez
A true creative both in and out of the studio, the celebrity is also a devoted food lover and cookbook author. He loves hosting themed dinners at his Los Angeles home, where he cooks favorites like homemade Taco Bell and deep-fried pickles for his girlfriend. Despite his success, it’s the “simple” pleasures that make him happiest, he said.

A close up of Selena Gomez, dated July 22, 2024 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez
When it comes to cooking for Gomez, whom he began dating in 2023, his humor shines through. As he joked in another interview, “How can anyone not love you if you’re making them a huge steak with potatoes and salad?”

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco being cozy outdoors, dated July 25, 2024 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez
He’s also an early riser, describing mornings with Gomez as his favorite time of day. “It’s like our moment before the rest of the world wakes up,” he explained. Reflecting on their relationship, Blanco added, “I have a true best friend that I get to do everything in the world with, and every day is the best day of my life.”

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco, dated March 8, 2024 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez | Source: Instagram/selenagomez
The two had known each other for years before their relationship blossomed. They even collaborated on the 2021 song “I Can’t Get Enough.” Gomez, who was single for years before dating Blanco, opened up about her journey to finding love in a May 2024 interview.

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco pictured outdoors, dated July 25, 2024 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez
Despite her appreciation for Blanco’s strength and grounded nature, his recent selection as Sexiest Man Alive has sparked strong reaction.

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco taking a selfie, dated November 10, 2024 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez
Social media has been buzzing, with some users on X voicing surprise, disapproval, and skepticism. “How much did Selena paid [sic] for this? He’s so… ew (it’s a joke, don’t sue me),” one person quipped.

Selena Gomez pictured sitting on Benny Blanco’s lap, dated March 8, 2024 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez
Another user asked, “This has to be a joke right..? RIGHT?????” “Selena paid for this,” commented another. One user sarcastically questioned, “Is the sexiest man alive in the room with us?”

A close up of Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco, dated August 8, 2024 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez
“Are you kidding me?” another replied in disbelief. “……………. I’m sorry what?” wrote another, showing clear surprise. One user commented, “Only thing sexy about him is his girlfriend.”

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco photographed kissing, dated December 15, 2023 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez
Meanwhile, on Facebook, people took a more supportive stance, focusing on Blanco’s character. “The way he treats Selena, he’s a gentleman, and that’s a kind of sexy that goes beyond looks,” one user stated.

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco pictured on the couch, dated August 8, 2024 | Source: Instagram/selenagomez
Another fan shared, “I think he’s sweet, funny, talented. Has beautiful curly hair and amazing eyes on top of how he treats her. He goes above and beyond to make her feel special. That is sexy [expletive].” “Maybe is [sic] not about looks, but he is a really nice guy,” another added.

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco in a clip on TikTok, dated July 2024 | Source: TikTok/selenagomez
One commenter reflected, “Honestly I can see it; he treats her like a queen and he respects and loves her. It seems he was raised right. It isn’t always about looks people, it’s what’s inside that counts. And that can make a man sexy.”

Benny Blanco at the 65th Grammy Awards on February 5, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
The contrasting reactions to Blanco’s title reveal a divide between those who value traditional good looks and those who appreciate character and kindness as forms of attraction. Regardless of the debate, it’s clear that his relationship with Selena Gomez has brought a new layer of public interest and admiration for the couple.