It's been nearly 20 years since Patrick Dempsey captured our hearts as the charming neurosurgeon Derek "McDreamy" Shepherd on Grey's Anatomy. In the latest chapter of his illustrious career, he's been crowned the Sexiest Man of the Year for 2023.
Reflecting on this honor, the 57-year-old Maine native shared his gratitude: "I'm glad it's happening at this point in my life," he told PEOPLE in this week's cover story. "It's nice to have the recognition, and while it certainly gives my ego a little boost, it also provides me with a platform to use it for something positive."
One of his most cherished projects is the Dempsey Center, which he founded in memory of his late mother to provide support to cancer patients and their families.
Family holds a special place in Dempsey's heart. He's devoted to his wife, Jillian, a makeup artist and founder of her own natural beauty line. Together, they are parents to 21-year-old Talula and 16-year-old twins, Sullivan and Darby. Beyond family life, Dempsey nurtures his passion for race car driving.
Upon hearing the news of his Sexiest Man of the Year title, he recalled his initial reaction: "I was completely surprised and then started laughing, thinking, this is a joke, right? I've always been the eternal second," he chuckled.
"I had completely forgotten about it and never even contemplated being in this position. So, my ego is in check."
As for his kids' response, Dempsey anticipates their playful teasing with good humor: "They're just going to make fun of me, pick on me, and find every reason why I shouldn't be," he says. "Which is fine, they keep me young."
In the upcoming biographical film Ferrari, directed by Michael Mann and set to premiere in December, Dempsey showcases his racing skills while portraying Italian driver Piero Taruffi. The film taught him a valuable life lesson: if you truly want something, you have to take the initiative.
"I had been following the movie for years, so I called Michael and said, 'I want to discuss being a part of this,'" Dempsey recalls. "That taught me that if you really want something, you have to do it yourself."
Patrick Dempsey's journey is a testament to the notion that good things come to those who wait.
As he humorously puts it, "I've got bumper stickers, T-shirts, posters. Does this mean I've peaked?" "I peaked many years ago," he says, laughing. "But I'm still here."
Don't miss Dempsey in Ferrari, hitting theaters on Christmas Day. For more information about the Dempsey Center, visit dempseycenter.org. ✨🎥🌟
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