Silver Foxes make me blush

Believe me. It hasn’t passed my mind that I didn’t comment on the biggest announcement of the Thanksgiving holiday. Every year I wait for the announcement with much anticipation but travel made it impossible to comment on a timely basis. But when you think about it, the topic is truly timeless. What other event shapes pop culture and even our lives more than People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive? That’s right ladies … and gentlemen; George Clooney won the coveted title twice. He ties my personal favorite, Brad Pitt, for this prestigious honor.

As always, Clooney is a classic choice. He’s smart, funny, handsome and talented. Can’t be mad at that. An obvious choice would have been Brad who is coming off one hell of a year or Daniel Craig, my new favorite, who is about to ride a gigantic wave of popularity. I applaud People for choosing an older more distinguished man. I’ve noticed lately that I’m partial to older men. There’s something about a man of a certain age who looks like he’s done it all and done it well.

In honor of Clooney, I’ve selected my personal candidates for Sexiest Man Alive over 40. Keep in my definition of sexy isn’t based solely on looks. I find passion and aptitude for something sexy. I think it’s sexy when some excels at something.

Here are the experienced veterans that make my pulse race:

Jeremy Irons, 58
Call me crazy but his portrayal of a lecherous old man sexing up his son’s girlfriend in Damage was insane. It probably says more about me than him that I developed a crush on him from this character. I had never looked at him in this light before. He is commanding and sensual.

Denzel Washington, 52
For years, women swooned over Denzel and I never found him attractive. Handsome yes but sexy no. As I get older though, I wonder what the hell was wrong with me. He’s incredibly talented, sexy and earnest. He’s like the boy next door with a naughty side.

Mikhail Baryshnikov, 58
His name will come up again and again with me. I admire his dancing, agility and longevity. I wanted to be a dancer until I was 12 and started to develop. It soon became apparent that you couldn’t be a ballerina standing 5’2’’ with a D-cup. Oh well, what happens to a dream deferred. I crushed madly on a world-class dancer.

Sean Connery, 76
Daniel Craig may be the new James Bond but Sean will always be my 007. What a striking and compelling man. His poise and appeal allowed him to redefine the notion of aging.

Sam Shepard, 63
I know. I have to unusual affinity for non-traditional looks. I’ve always felt he was deep in that poet/playwright way. He’s a talented writer and sensitive actor. I’ve always had a silent rivalry with Jessica Lange because she’s had relationship with Sam and Mikhail. It always seemed unfair for one woman to have such pleasure.

Clint Eastwood, 76
He’s another man who grew on me, as he got older. I adore and respect his movies. He’s crafted some films that are destined to be classics. Some already are. His calm demeanor and quiet manner speaks volumes about him.

Who is your pick for Sexiest Man Alive?