Jimmy Fallon Reacts to 2024’s Sexiest Man Alive — and has ‘Fingers Crossed’ Next Year Is His Year (Exclusive)

Jimmy Fallon is keeping his eye on the prize.

After a valiant effort in campaigning to be PEOPLE’s Sexiest TV Hosts as part of this year’s reader’s poll, theTonight Show host, 50, is sharing his thoughts on this year’s pick for Sexiest Man Alive, John Krasinski. 

“I think he is the perfect choice… he’s got the whole package,” Fallon tells PEOPLE in an interview about his recent album Holiday Seasoning and accompanying NBC special Dec. 4. “He’s good-looking, but he’s also rugged. He’s funny. He can act and he’s a good person. So if that’s the definition of sexy then that works for me.”

And while Fallon approves of this year’s pick, he’s still hoping that one day the title will be his. 

“PEOPLE magazine is very smart,” he says. “That’s what keeps me subscribed to the magazine —because I never know what year I’m going to get it.”

But it can’t come too soon, he says: “Fingers crossed for next year.”

While making his case for Sexiest TV Host in September, Fallon used the opportunity to ask his fellow nominees  Seth Meyers, Mario Lopez and Mark Consuelos to drop out. 

“I’m up against Seth Meyers, Mario Lopez and Mark Consuelos. Yuck!” Fallon said on an episode of The Tonight Show. 

Of Consuelos, who would ultimately be named winner, Fallon said: “I’m going to ask you right now, please remove your name. from the ballot of People’s Sexiest [TV Host].” (Fallon later released a joke attack ad on the Live With Kelly and Mark host.)

The comedian went on to have some fun with an assortment of PEOPLE “swag” including a hat celebrating the magazine’s 50th anniversary. 

“Look at this. ‘Established 1974.’ You know what else is established in 1974? Me!” Fallon said, who turned 50 on Sept. 19, 2024. 

Upon accepting his victory, Consuelos admitted that even he voted for Fallon.  

“I’d like to thank all the other nominees, especially Jimmy Fallon … I’m sure it was very close,” he said. “I voted for him multiple times, but America has spoken.”