Selena Gomez’s partner has always felt “confident” growing up, thanks to his family who help keep him grounded. Recently, he stirred up social media as users voiced disapproval over his selection as the “Sexiest Man Alive.”

Selena Gomez’s boyfriend was named the “Sexiest Man Alive” by People in 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.

Reflecting on his roots in Virginia, Benny Blanco 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.” With a blend of humor and a bold sense of style, the star embraces modern masculinity while staying rooted in chivalry.

Beyond his charm, Blanco is a Grammy-nominated producer who has crafted hits for stars like Ed Sheeran and Lana Del Rey and collaborated with artists such as Halsey and Khalid. A TikTok favorite, Blanco has also been honored with the prestigious Hal David Starlight Award for his impact on the music industry.

A true creative both in and out of the studio, Blanco is also a devoted food lover and cookbook author. Blanco 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.

For Blanco, cooking is about showing his partner love, even if it means learning a new recipe or asking about her favorite dish. He mentioned that chivalry matters, advising, “Tell her how pretty she is.” He’s even perfected Taco Bell’s signature meat from scratch, saying, “It’s disgusting, but it’s delicious.”

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?”

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

“I was alone for five years, and I got really used to it,” the actress revealed, adding that she even planned to adopt by 35 if she hadn’t met anyone. Initially, she saw Blanco as a friend and even asked if he could set her up with someone.

However, her relationship with Blanco, whom she described as “wonderful,” hasn’t been without its critics. Gomez has faced backlash and has taken to social media to defend her connection with the record executive.

Responding to the negativity, she posted, “Then why has he been the best thing that’s ever happened to me … he’s still better than anyone I’ve been with. Facts.”

Blanco, for his part, appears deeply committed to their nearly year-long relationship. During a May 2024 interview on “The Howard Stern Show,” he expressed his hopes for a family someday, sharing his love for being around children.

When asked about proposing, he reflected on his feelings for Gomez, saying, “When I look at her, I do say, ‘I’m always just like I don’t know a world where it could be better than this.'”In a separate interview, Gomez responded to his openness about settling down, playfully noting, “He can’t lie to save his life. If he’s asked a question, he’ll answer it.” The singer reflected on her own guarded nature, shaped by years in the spotlight and the impact of public scrutiny on those close to her.

Despite occasional criticism from fans about her life choices, she expressed admiration for Blanco’s resilience, pointing out his strength in not letting outside opinions affect him. Gomez emphasized how much she cherishes their time together, noting confidence that he “isn’t going anywhere any time soon.”

Despite Gomez’s appreciation for Blanco’s strength and grounded nature, his recent selection as Sexiest Man Alive has sparked widespread debate.

Following his appearance on the Sexiest Man Alive list, social media has been buzzing, with some users on X voicing strong reactions to the selection. Many expressed surprise or disapproval.

“How much did Selena paid [sic] for this? He’s so… ew (it’s a joke, don’t sue me),” one person quipped. 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?”

Meanwhile, on Facebook, many 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.

Another fan shared, “I think he’s sweet, funny, talented. Has [sic] 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.

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.”

The contrasting reactions to Blanco’s title reveal a divide between those who value traditional 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.