Discover the results for the sexiest celebrity ever vote. Which star did you rate as the hottest ever?
100. Alan Titchmarsh
Although he doesn't look like the traditional image of the buff gardener, Alan Titchmarsh has become an unlikely sex symbol. Titchmarsh's down-to-earth sexiness first came to the attention of housewives everywhere when he presented BBC2's Gardener's World from his own back garden. Amazingly, Alan has also published several very racy novels, proving that there's definitely something to his sex symbol status.
99. Adam Brodie
Can a nerd be a sex symbol? You'd better believe it. Adam Brody's character Seth in The OC is socially awkward, geeky and an unexpected sex symbol. Maybe the teenage girls of today have become tired of jocks, the traditional heart-throbs of American dramas, and instead now pine for the thoughtful nerd? Don't believe it for a moment. In Adam Brody, Seth may have the mannerisms of a nerd, but The OC producers made damn sure he didn't have the looks of one.
98. Brooke Shields
At the age of only twelve, Shields controversially starred as a prostitute in the film Pretty Baby (1978), before going on to cause even more of a stir in soft-core romp The Blue Lagoon two years later. Brooke cemented her status as an international sex symbol by appearing in a Calvin Klein jeans advert, in which she made famous the phrase 'Nothing comes between me and my Calvins'. As time has passed, Shields has become more famous for her relationships with men like Andre Agassi, and for her brave battle with post-natal depression. See all films by Brooke Shields
97. Richard Madeley
What is it about the power of daytime television that creates sex symbols? Richard Madeley is the TV partner to Judy Finnigan, and the man who sets the pulses of students and housewives racing. The pair have dominated the airwaves for over a decade on shows like This Morning and Richard & Judy and, somehow, Richard has managed to become a sex symbol in the eyes of the British public. Maybe it's his forthright style? Maybe it's his try-anything-once attitude? Whatever it is, there's just something sexy about him.
96. Bjorn Borg
Widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players ever, Swedish Bjorn is also one of the sexiest blokes to tread the lawns. After grand-slamming his way through the world's biggest tournaments, he retired from tennis at the tender age of 26, but his long blonde hair and chiselled face kept him in the ranks of the hottest sportsmen ever.
95. Catherine Bach
Think Daisy Duke from the Dukes of Hazzard, think tight cut-off jeans. The car was supposed to be the star of the show, but that wasn't the reason boys around the world were tuning in - Catherine Bach captured the hearts of millions of teenagers by strutting around in hot pants as the ultimate girl next door. The Daisy Duke poster became a cultural icon, selling five million copies in America.
See all films by Catherine Bach.
94. Jean-Christophe Novelli
Another celebrity chef in our list, Jean-Christophe Novelli's French charm is as smooth as the sauces he creates for his dishes. Novelli came to the British public's attention after taking over from Gordon Ramsay on the TV programme Hell's Kitchen. His passionate cooking style and good looks have made him a culinary sex symbol.
93. Justin Timberlake
It's amazing what a haircut can do for a guy's image. Just by shaving his head and growing some stubble, Justin morphed from a curly-topped bottle-blond boyband member into the bloke every male wants to be and every girl wants to date. He even upgraded his girlfriend from childhood sweetheart, Britney Spears, to fellow sex symbol nominee, Cameron Diaz.
See all films by Justin Timberlake.
92. Gisele
She's one of the world's most beautiful women - Vogue voted her Model of the Millennium - and she used to date Leonardo DiCaprio, so it's fair to say that Gisele is pretty sexy. Hailing from Brazil, Gisele fuses too-beautiful-to-be-real looks with a genuine, womanly sexiness, unlike most other supermodels. Check out any of her work with celebrity fashion photographer David LaChapelle and you'll realise just how big a role sex plays in her appeal.
91. Kirstie & Phil
The presenters of Channel 4's Location, Location, Location may be good at finding property bargains, but that isn't why the nation is really tuning in. Is it just us or do they seem far more interested in each other than the properties they're looking around? The thought of what's going on behind the curtains has made homes sexy again.
90. James Nesbitt
Hailing from Northern Ireland, James Nesbitt's effortless charm and bad boy attitude have made him the sexiest chancer on British television. After starring in numerous TV shows, it was the comedy series about middle class love, Cold Feet (1997), that made him a household name. Since then, Nesbitt has proved that he's able to be both funny (Lucky Break) and serious (Bloody Sunday), but he's always sexy.
See all films by James Nesbitt
89. Farah Fawcett
One of the sexiest TV stars of the 1970s, Farrah Fawcett-Majors found international fame as one of Charlie's Angels in the mega-hit show. After guest appearances in programmes like I Dream of Jeannie and The Partridge Family, she married actor Lee Majors and got to star alongside him in The Million Dollar Man. What got her noticed, however, was a swimsuit poster she posed for in the mid-1970s. It sold an amazing eight million copies and made her the biggest selling pin-up in history. See all films by Farrah Fawcett.
88. Julio Iglesias
The Latin love god, father to Enrique Iglesias and a pop giant in his own right, has been a sex symbol for decades. After a car accident ended his promising career as a goalkeeper at Real Madrid, Julio learned to play guitar in his hospital bed, embarking on a singing career after he recovered. How glad the women of the world must be, with songs like Gwendolyne making him one of the biggest selling Latin artists ever. They also seem to be pretty happy that he fathered Enrique, who has continued his dad's sex symbol legacy.
87. Jessica Rabbit
She's not bad, she's just drawn that way. Jessica Rabbit is the absurdly sexy animated star of Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (1988), who tempts Bob Hoskins with her curvaceous figure and innocent charm. Maybe it's the rumours that naked frames of her were spliced into the film by Disney animators, or maybe it's the fact that she must be kinky to have married a rabbit - whatever it is, there's just something damn sexy about her.
86. Tony Curtis
He might be a little long in the tooth to register as top totty for today's teenagers, but back in the day, Tony Curtis (born Bernard Schwartz in 1925) was a veritable heart-throb. The star of numerous Hollywood hits such as Sweet Smell of Success (1957), Some Like It Hot (1959) and Spartacus (1960), Curtis has had six wives, the first being Janet Leigh (star of Psycho), with whom he had daughter Jamie Lee Curtis. See all films by Tony Curtis.
85. Diana Dors
Diana Dors was adored by the British public. A star of the silver screen for nearly forty years, the woman once dubbed the 'English Marilyn Monroe' was a larger than life character who seemed to have it all - fame, riches and beauty. Dors' image has endured since her death in 1984, in part because of the fact that she hid £2m away in secret bank accounts, leaving her son a code to track down the money.
See all films by Diana Dors
84. Gordon Ramsay
Admit it, swearing is sexy, and no one swears quite like Gordon Ramsay. One of world's most famous, and possibly sexiest, chefs, Ramsay actually had a successful career as a footballer at Glasgow Rangers before swapping the pitch for the kitchen. Despite once stating that he hated celebrity chefs, the success of Hell's Kitchen, Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares and the F-Word has placed him in the A-list. Women love a man who can cook and Ramsay is gas mark 9.
Find out more about Gordon Ramsay.
83. Michael Hutchence
Bad boy rock'n'roll star Michael certainly lived up to the name of his band, living his short life in excess. The singer perfected the 'just fallen out of bed' look, thanks to oh-so-tight leather trousers, the obligatory open shirt and an unruly hairdo. His many celebrity conquests, including Kylie Minogue, Helena Christensen and Paula Yates, added to the public's fascination. Dying young at 37 in true debauched rock'n'roll style cemented Michael's status as a rock legend and sex symbol.
82. Joanna Lumley
An enduring sex symbol of British television, Joanna Lumley first appeared in the fantasies of male viewers as the partner to John Steed in The New Avengers (1975). Since then her sexy voice has been an almost permanent fixture on our TV screens. The star of too many shows to mention, Lumley is now probably best known for her role as Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous. Stone was an ageing man-eater who smoked and drank enough to kill lesser mortals, and we couldn't get enough of her. See all films by Joanna Lumley.
81. Betty Page
This raven-haired vixen is one of the world's greatest ever pin-ups. Born in 1923, in Nashville, Tennessee, Page started modelling after moving to San Francisco, and in 1955 she won the title 'Miss Pin-up Girl of the World'. Her beautiful figure made Page a sex symbol, but she became an icon after mysteriously disappearing at the height of her fame. The world's media and fans speculated wildly about what had happened to her, only for it to later emerge that she had simply decided to be a regular housewife. See all films by Betty Page.
80. Woody Allen
Men that make women laugh are sexy, and with a career spanning over 30 years, Woody continues to be so. Add to this his nervous disposition, self-deprecating nature and thick black glasses, and you get the thinking-woman's sex symbol. Many of Woody's leading ladies have agreed; he had long relationships with Diane Keaton and Mia Farrow before shacking up with Mia's adopted daughter Soon-Yi Previn. Even Scarlett Johansson, star of Woody's romantic drama Match Point, named him the sexiest man in Hollywood in an interview. See all films by Woody Allen.
79. Rock Hudson
The sex symbol that Hollywood created, Rock Hudson went from being a truck driver to movie star after being reinvented by Universal-International Pictures. Despite having very little acting experience, Hudson got by on his looks in movies like Undertow (1949), The Desert Hawk (1950) and Scarlet Angel (1952), before developing into a fine actor in roles like Magnificent Obsession (1954), Giant (1956) and A Farewell to Arms (1957). Despite his homosexuality, the Studios forced him to live in a sham marriage, but Hudson courageously revealed all when dying of AIDS in the mid-1980s. His bravery helped to break down sexual barriers and allowed society to better understand the disease. See all films by Rock Hudson.
78. David Walliams
The man who made dressing up as a woman sexy, David Walliams has become one of the most famous faces in the UK, thanks to Little Britain. Walliams' ambiguous sexuality - he camps it up, dresses up, yet the tabloid tales indicate just how much he like the ladies - only adds to his attractiveness. He famously scooped Best Comedy Newcomer at the British Comedy Awards in 2003, despite the fact that he'd been working with Lucas within the scene for nearly 10 years. See all films by David Walliams.
77. Rachel Stevens
The voluptuous beauty from S Club 7 raised the interest of UK males of all ages thanks to her Californian tan and predilection for showing off her toned midriff. Now a solo star, Rachel's raunchy dance moves borrow heavily from the queen of pop, Kylie Minogue. With songs like 'I Said Never Again (but Here We Are)', Rachel proves that she's a pop princess and she's got what it takes to top sex symbol polls.
76. Lynda Carter
Actress and singer Lynda found her big break as super-vixen Wonder Woman in the 70s. Playing an ultra-sexy superhero came naturally to the former Miss World USA winner and Lynda even managed to get her own songs into the massively popular series. The public may remember her as Wonder Woman, but her place in the role call of sex symbols is timeless. See all films by Lynda Carter.
75. Carol Vorderman
One from the top. Carol Vorderman might be famed for using her mathematical brain on Countdown, but it's her sex appeal that had millions of men tuning into the show every day. Not only is she good-looking, Carol also seems to have discovered the secret of eternal youth. The definition of 'thinking man's crumpet'. Find out more About Carol Vorderman.
74. Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington has been one of the sexiest men in Hollywood for nearly three decades. After working in film and TV for much of the 80s, Washington hit the big time after winning a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for the historical epic Glory (1989). Since then, Denzel's powerful presence has been felt in films like Malcolm X (1992), Philadelphia (1993) and Crimson Tide (1995). He's so sexy that he even managed to seduce Angelina Jolie while crippled, in the film The Bone Collector (1999). Hollywood still wouldn't let him kiss Julia Roberts in The Pelican Brief (1993) though, but we bet she wanted to. See all films by Denzel Washington.
73. Jeremy Paxman
There's something about the way he grills those politicians that makes Jeremy Paxman really sexy. Maybe it's the way he doesn't take no for an answer, the way he isn't afraid to square up to even the most powerful men in Britain - who knows, we just love him. The longstanding lead presenter of BBC Newsnight and University Challenge for years, Paxman is an institution. The fact that he's so rude to everyone on his shows only makes him sexier.
72. Jude Law
There was a time when every man in the world was jealous of Jude Law. His chiselled face was the star of films like Gattaca (1997), The Talented Mr Ripley (1999) and Cold Mountain (2003), he was the toast of award ceremonies everywhere, and he was dating media darling Sienna Miller. One slip up with the nanny later and poor old Jude's sex symbol status was in danger of fading, but the cheeky chappy managed to wrest it back. See all films by Jude Law.
71. JFK
John F Kennedy was more than just the president of the United States - he was an international celebrity. Handsome, charismatic, powerful and incredibly wealthy, JFK had all the qualities women find attractive, and boy did he use them. Although he may have played on his family man credentials during his presidential election campaign, Kennedy spent more time with his many mistresses than wife Jackie during his tragically short term as president. He wasn't simply chasing interns either - Kennedy's conquests included Marilyn Monroe.
70. Serge Gainsbourg
The writer of one of the sexiest songs in pop history, Serge Gainsbourg was an unlikely sex symbol himself - despite being rather ugly, he managed to seduce some of the world's most beautiful women. Although an iconic figure in France, Gainsbourg is best remembered internationally for his Vatican-scaring song 'Je t'aime? Moi Non Plus' of 1969. This erotic song, featuring the ecstatic moans of his then-girlfriend Jane Birkin, reached the number one spot in countries around the world. See all films by Serge Gainsbourg.
69. Abi Titmuss
Was ever a tabloid celebrity more accurately named? When Abi Titmuss first came to the attention of the British public in 2003, she was the virtuous nurse girlfriend of John Leslie, standing by her man as he faced rape charges. Then, no sooner had she bagged a job on Richard & Judy did tabloid rumours of sex tapes emerge. In an amazing example of reinvention, Titmuss recast herself as the sexpot-next-door and hasn't looked back. Now the darling of the lads' mags, she's a sex symbol in her own right, albeit an attainable one.
68. Jim Morrison
The iconic rock'n'roll frontman of The Doors is the sex symbol of the dark side of life. Morrison's preferred method of tapping into the poetic side of his nature involved drinking and taking as many drugs as possible. His dark lyrics drove The Doors up the charts, and his mesmerising stage performances made him a star - Morrison was once famously arrested for allegedly simulating fellatio and exposing himself during a concert in Miami. Nicknamed the Lizard King, Morrison's insane private life involved booze, a destructive marriage to Pamela Courson, affairs, a pagan marriage to a New York witch and an early death in mysterious circumstances. His death in a Paris bathtub at only 27 sealed Morrison's fate as an enduring symbol of sex and hedonism.
67. Simon Cowell
Those trousers! That cheeky smirk! That glint in his eye! Yes, like him or not, Simon Cowell has the (se)x factor. As one of the most powerful people in the UK music industry, Simon has guided the careers of acts as varied as Westlife, Robson and Jerome and the Teletubbies. His bulging bank account is definitely attractive, regardless of what you think of his dress sense. Simon's appeal is global, as he rakes in millions each year as a judge on American Idol.
66. Vivien Leigh
Vivien Leigh's role as Scarlett O'Hara in Gone with the Wind (1939) guaranteed her place in Hollywood history and made her an international sex symbol. The feisty Scarlett's battles with lover Rhett (Clark Gable) thrilled audiences everywhere. Leigh picked up an Oscar for the role, something that would annoy then husband Laurence Olivier as he always seemed to miss out. Leigh would turn in many other fine performances during her career, but O'Hara overshadowed them all. See all films by Vivien Leigh.
65. Tony Blair
Sex is power, so at one time Tony Blair must have been one of the sexiest men in Britain. Blair brought youthful energy back into politics after winning power from the Tory party in 1997. Like many seducers however, he promised much but has failed to deliver in the long run. As a world leader Blair was a genuine sex symbol, but ouf of office and post-Iraq his star has dwindled.
64. Gael Garcia Bernal
One of the sexiest exports from Mexico, Bernal's smouldering beauty came to the attention of the world in Amores Perros (2000). Since then, a string of fine performances in films like Y Tu Mama Tambien (2001) and The Motorcycle Diaries (2004) have cemented his position as cinema's hottest property. Hollywood and world domination can't be far away now, especially as Bernal speaks perfect English after studying at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London. See all films by Gael Garcia Bernal.
63. Jack Nicholson
Crazy Jack, with his shark's grin, is one of the sexiest stars Hollywood ever produced. The rebel who never sold out, Jack Nicholson exploded to stardom in Dennis Hopper's Easy Rider (1969), playing a small-town lawyer who drops out to hit the open road. He went on to star in some of Hollywood's finest films, such as Five Easy Pieces (1970), Chinatown (1974), One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975) and The Shining (1980). A renowned hellraiser and womaniser, Jack's refusal to ever conduct any interviews with the press has only added to his enigmatic allure. If sexiness was down to talent alone, Jack Nicholson would be on a list all of his own. See all films by Jack Nicholson.
62. Prince William
Taking his wholesome good looks from his mother, Wills is a strapping lad, though perhaps not an obvious choice for inclusion in a sex symbol poll. But throw in the fact that he happens to be heir to the throne, and that one day his bride will be queen, and Prince Wills becomes very sexy indeed. Long-term relationships with university flatmate Kate Middleton and Jessica Craig, the daughter of a wealthy Kenyan conservationist, haven't hurt his sex symbol credentials - Wills is no cad, he's the perfect gentleman.
61. Owen Wilson
The most laid-back sex symbol on the list, Owen Wilson fell into acting after becoming friends with Wes Anderson. The two of them co-wrote Bottle Rocket (1996), and then went on to become Hollywood regulars, working together again on The Royal Tenenbaums (2001) and The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2005). Owen's charm lies in his easygoing style, surfer good looks and infeasible nose, which has been broken several times. Anyone in doubt of his sex symbol status need look no further than his performance as a male model called Hansel in the fashion industry satire Zoolander (2001). See all films by Owen Wilson.
60. Sharon Stone
Sharon's career may have had its ups and downs, but her sex symbol status has remained steady since she first rose to fame in Total Recall (1990). A self-proclaimed feisty feminist, Sharon has courted controversy throughout her career, never more so than an infamous scene in Basic Instinct (1992) where she crossed and uncrossed her shapely legs, later claiming she felt pressured on set. Whatever the truth, it did wonders for Sharon's sex appeal. See all films by Sharon Stone.
59. Patrick Stewart
Best known for his delectable, classically trained voice, Patrick Stewart began his acting career treading the boards with the Royal Shakespeare Company. However, it was only once this balding beauty donned the captain's uniform as the quietly commanding Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation that he rose to international fame and sex symbol status. One of the older recipients of the 'Sexiest Man on Television' accolade, Stewart has also bestowed his sophisticated charm on the big screen in several Star Trek movies, and more recently in X-Men (2000) and X-Men 2 (2003). See all films by Patrick Stewart
58. Nigella Lawson
The woman who made food sexy, Nigella Lawson is the domestic goddess of the list. Before becoming the celebrity chef men lust after, Lawson had been a successful journalist. A love of food led to columns in The Spectator and Vogue before her book, How to Eat: the Principles and Pleasures of Good Food, established her fame. Since then, Lawson's ample talents made her TV series, Nigella Bites, a big hit on Channel 4. And her flowing black hair, curvaceous figure and sensual attitude to food made her a sex symbol at the same time.
57. Gerard Depardieu
One of the most unusual sex symbols in the list, Depardieu combines physical presence with one of cinema's biggest personalities. A superstar in France, and admired by moviegoers across the rest of the world, he began his career in a small travelling theatre before going on to star in Get Out Your Handkerchiefs (1978), The Last Metro (1980), The Return of Martin Guerre (1982), Jean de Florette (1986) and Cyrano de Bergerac (1990). Although Depardieu never quite made it in America (Green Card was an underwhelming use of his talent), keeping Hollywood at arm's length has almost made him sexier. See all films by Gerard Depardieu
56. Aishwarya Rai
A Miss World winner in 1994, Aishwarya Rai's stunning green eyes went on to mesmerise Bollywood fans in films like Aur Paar Ho Gaya', Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. Aishwarya Rai came to the world's attention in the wonderfully excessive Devdas (2002), the biggest-budget Bollywood film and also the most successful. Since then, she starred in Gurinder Chadha's Bride & Prejudice (2004) and looks Hollywood bound. See all films by Aishwarya Rai
55. Hugh Laurie
After a hugely successful appearance as the dim-witted Prince Regent in Ben Elton's Blackadder, Hugh Laurie was long seen as a funny, if un-sexy, staple of British golden-age television, going on to form one half of classic 1980s comedy duo 'Fry and Laurie'. After making a wise move to the States, his sex appeal has sky-rocketed, thanks in no small part to his impeccably crafted American twang in TV drama House. Perhaps one of the most surprising sex symbols of our time, Hugh is aging magnificently. See all films by Hugh Laurie.
54. Donny Osmond
The sex symbol for the older lady, Donny Osmand found fame after his brothers were discovered at Disneyland by Walt Disney. Donny joined the Osmonds at the age of six and became a heart-throb to girls across the world. His wide-eyed innocent looks melted teenage hearts as he crooned songs like Puppy Love, Go Away Little Girl and Crazy Horses. Donny has moved out of the pop world and into Broadway and television, but still retains a loyal, and almost exclusively female, fan base. See all films by Donny Osmond.
53. John Malkovich
With his intelligence, wit and unusual appearance, John Malkovich has become an unlikely sex symbol in Hollywood. His status probably rests on the remarkable performance he gave as the amoral seducer Vicomte de Valmont, in the film Dangerous Liaisons (1988). Malkovich's shark-like turn in the movie made him an international star. Since then, he has appeared in films including Of Mice and Men (1992), In the Line of Fire (1993), Con Air (1997), Being John Malkovich (1999) and The Libertine (2004). See all films by John Malkovich
52. Jamie Lee Curtis
How could the daughter of Hollywood legends Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh not be a star? Jamie Lee Curtis started out her career as a scream queen in horror films like Halloween (1978), Terror Train (1980) and The Fog (1980). Her wholesome, natural beauty made her the perfect victim/hero of slasher flicks - you fancy her, but know that she probably won't go all the way on the first date. Curtis achieved leading lady status after starring as a prostitute in Trading Places (1983), and has continued to defy our expectations in movies like A Fish Called Wanda (1988), Blue Steel (1989), True Lies (1994) and Freaky Friday (2003). See all films by Jamie Lee-Curtis
51. Thierry Henry
A footballer with va-va-voom in every sense, Thierry Henry is one of the most beautiful sportsmen on the planet. Men drool at his lightning pace, tremendous touch and wonderful skill on the ball. Women, on the other hand, are sent into raptures by Henry's matinee-idol good looks. The man really does seem to have walked straight out of a movie set and onto the pitch.
50. Helen Mirren
Look up sexy in the dictionary and you'll find a picture of Helen Mirren. Her beauty, charisma and habit of getting her kit off in every movie she stars in have made Mirren one of the sexiest actresses in Britain. Despite having worked in film since the 1960s, she remains as attractive now as when prancing around naked in the Roman soft-core romp Caligula (1979). Having starred in The Long Good Friday (1980), Excalibur (1981), The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover (1989) and The Madness of King George (1994), Mirren found a whole new audience in the TV show Prime Suspect. Her performance as the tough Superintendent Jane Tennison made her every man's fantasy powerful woman. See all films by Helen Mirren
49. Steve McQueen
One of the hottest actors of any generation, girls wanted to sleep with Steve McQueen and men wanted to be him. He specialised in playing the cool, brooding loner in roles like The Blob (1958), The Magnificent Seven (1960), The Great Escape (1963), Bullitt (1968) and The Thomas Crown Affair (1968), the latter featuring one of cinema's sexiest scenes, in which McQueen plays a sensual game of chess with Faye Dunaway. He was top of Charles Manson's death list, was filmed by the FBI attending an orgy, and was taught martial arts by Bruce Lee. He died in 1980 while undergoing surgery for cancer, but his sex appeal lives on. See all films by Steve McQueen
48. Johnny Knoxville
The sex symbol for the MTV generation, Johnny Knoxville came to the attention of the world performing gross-out stunts on the TV show Jackass. Never underestimate the attractiveness to the opposite sex of putting yourself in danger, especially if it involves a hit TV show that then gets made into a movie. Hollywood has since come calling, and Knoxville has made the transition to movie star in films like Grand Theft Parsons (2003), Walking Tall (2004) and The Dukes of Hazzard (2005). According to celebrity magazines, he's now considered sexy enough to turn the head of Jessica Simpson. See all films by Johnny Knoxville.
47. Mel Gibson
Sex is power, and Mel Gibson is one of the most powerful men in Hollywood. The ultra-religious star of such films as Mad Max (1979), Lethal Weapon (1987) and Braveheart (1995) is famous for playing unhinged, but morally right, characters that use violence to solve their problems. Gibson's position as a Hollywood heavyweight was set in stone by his decision to pump $25m of his own money into The Passion of the Christ (2004). The film was a mega-hit in God-fearing America, and is reported to have earned Gibson over $200m. Purchasing your own island, which Mel did in 2004, can also make you very attractive. See all films by Mel Gibson
46. Burt Reynolds
A Hollywood sex symbol from the age in which the moustache was sexy, Burt Reynolds had intended to play professional American Football before injury forced him into an acting career. His performances on TV and in films made little impact until Reynolds starred in John Boorman's Deliverance (1972). The film, about a river-rafting trip from hell, made him a star. The secret of Reynold's success as a sex symbol, and movie star, was to play the bad boy. It also didn't hurt that he was Cosmopolitan Magazine's first ever nude centrefold star. See all films by Burt Reynolds.
45. Ziyi Zhang
Zhang Ziyi came to the attention of the world in Ang Lee's martial arts extravaganza Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000). Her performance, as a sword-stealing temptress, also made us fancy her. Ziyi has gone on to be one of China's biggest stars, in movies like Hero (2002), 2046 (2004) and House of Flying Daggers (2004). Her undoubted powers of seduction are tested to the full in Hollywood's adaptation of Memoirs of a Geisha (2005). See all films by Ziyi Zhang.
44. David Cassidy
This Partridge Family TV-show star was a heart-throb for a whole generation of teenage girls. At the peak of the show's success, David Cassidy was the highest paid entertainer on television and his fan club was bigger than Elvis Presley's. However, as with many young stars, Cassidy found it impossible to escape his onscreen persona, no matter how hard he tried. Even posing naked for Rolling Stone magazine couldn't break the curse of The Partridge Family.
43. Richard Gere
One of Hollywood's most popular romantic leads, Richard Gere was once confident enough in his sexual powers to display all in American Gigolo (1980). Less controversial roles in movies like An Officer and a Gentlemen (1982), Breathless (1983) and No Mercy (1986) established him as a genuine movie sex symbol. Don't forget that Gere can act as well, but only when required by a demanding role, as was demonstrated in Internal Affairs (1990). Gere also played one of cinema's few romanticised curb crawlers in the movie Pretty Woman (1990). See all films by Richard Gere
42. Jordan
Jordan is a sex symbol in the same way that Barbie promotes a healthy body image to young girls. The British public really shouldn't find her attractive - comedy boobs, bad make-up and shameless self promotion - but they just don't seem to be able to help themselves. Marriage to camp Australian Peter Andre should have made her even less sexy, but somehow Jordon continues to shift calendars. She's no mysterious girl, but maybe that's exactly why we all love her so much - she's one of us made good.
41. Robert Redford
Although a little too craggy today, Robert Redford was once one of the sexiest men on the planet. His youthful, all-American good looks caused a stir in female loins all around the world after his breakthrough film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) opened to acclaim. Since then, Redford has often starred in movies as the man who makes beautiful women want to have affairs, such as The Way We Were (1973), The Great Gatsby (1974) Out of Africa (1985) and Havana (1990). He famously offered Demi Moore $1m to sleep with him in Indecent Proposal (1993), although we suspect he probably didn't need to. See all films by Robert Redford
40. Raquel Welch
A cult sex symbol, Raquel Welch proved to be the ultimate fantasy cave-woman. After years of appearing in minor movies, Welch dressed up in a fur bikini for the film One Million Years BC (1966). Despite featuring numerous dinosaurs and volcanic explosions, Welch turned out to be the best special effect in the movie and she shot to international fame. Although she would go on to appear in films like Fantastic Voyage (1966), Bedazzled (1967) and The Three Musketeers (1973), Welch will forever be remembered as a sexy prehistoric woman. See all films by Raquel Welch
39. Jenna Jameson
One of the world's most iconic and profitable porn stars, Jenna Jameson is the secret fantasy of men around the world. You wouldn't want your mother finding out what she did as a day job, but you'd love to take her home. Starting out as a lap dancer, Jameson was a star even before appearing in her first porno - a bidding war commenced as soon as she showed any interest in the format. Having risen to the top of her trade, she now dominates adult entertainment and is a cultural figure in her own right.
38. John Travolta
Disco made John Travolta into a sex symbol the world over. After starring in Saturday Night Fever in 1977, Travolta's incredible moves became aped on dance floors everywhere. Amazingly, his next appearance would come in the totally unsexy Grease (1978). He might have gotten to dance with Princess Diana, but Travolta found the 1980s tough going in Hollywood. However, Quentin Tarantino gave his career the kiss of life, persuading him to play hitman Vincent Vega in Pulp Fiction. He hasn't looked back since. See all films by John Travolta.
37. Christian Bale
The child star of Steven Spielberg's Empire of the Sun (1987) had spent his career flying under the Hollywood radar in serious independent films, but Batman Begins (2005) changed all that. Bale's sexiness lies in the obsessive approach he takes to acting. He buffed up to near body builder levels to play Patrick Bateman in American Psycho (2000), and then starved himself to a skeleton for The Machinist (2004). His dark brooding acting style proved to be perfect for the role of Batman, which has now brought Bale to the attention of the world. See all films by Christian Bale
36. Imran Khan
One of Pakistan's greatest ever cricketers, Imran Khan was held in god-like status in that part of the world during his playing days. Considered one of the world's best bowlers, he was also one of its finest womanisers, putting his charms to use in seducing British millionairess Jemima Goldsmith. Although his commitment to politics in Pakistan put an end to their marriage, Khan remains one of sport's sexiest ever men.
35. Desperate Housewives
The women of Wisteria Lane are desperate, and the whole world found it sexy. There's been a lot of debate about the various plot lines in Desperate Housewives, but the real argument is all about which of its female inhabitants is the sexiest. Is it kooky Teri Hatcher, stressed-out Felicity Huffman, kinky Marcia Cross, over-exposed Eva Longoria or blonde seductress Nicollette Sheridan? They're all pretty hot, but together they make for one of the sexiest shows on television. Find out more about Desperate Housewives.
34. David Beckham
No modern footballer has risen to such celebrated status as David Beckham. Worshipped by football fans and desired by women globally, he has been deified on television, in art (remember the photos of him sleeping?) and even carved into gold alongside Buddha. At his peak, he was the man who had it all - his footballing brilliance carried England to the 2002 World Cup, he was happily married to a famous popstar and his iconic beauty made him one of the most attractive men on the planet (to both women and sponsors). The tabloids have occasionally tried to take the shine off the man Victoria calls 'golden balls', but England should never forget that game against Greece. When his team mates had long given up, Beckham played them on his own, eventually winning, and then scoring, the free kick that took us to Japan. The way David Beckham bends the ball really is one of the sexiest things in football.
33. Antonio Banderas
The young Antonio wanted to be a footballer, but injury at an early age put an end to his dream. Soccer's loss was the female world's gain, as Banderas has risen through the acting world to become an international sex symbol. After starring in Pedro Almodovar's Law of Desire (1987), Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (1988) and Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down! (1990), Banderas made the brave jump to Hollywood, despite knowing little English. Legend has it he lied to the studios about his fluency in English and then learned his lines phonetically for the film The Mambo Kings. Language is no barrier to incredible good looks however, and Banderas has gone on to become one of Hollywood's most successful imports. See all films by Antonio Banderas
32. Kim Basinger
Model-turned-actress Kim Basinger is one of Hollywood's enduring sex symbols. Having appeared in episodes of Charlie's Angels, Basinger got her break as a Bond girl in Never Say Never Again (1983). It was her steamy performance alongside Mickey Rourke in Nine 1/2 Weeks (1986) that really set pulses across the world racing however (think Last Tango in Paris without a good script). Basinger has gone on to appear in Batman (1989), LA Confidential (1997) and 8 Mile (2002). See all films by Kim Basinger
31. Tom Jones
Welsh crooner Tom Jones has been charming audiences since the 60s and has had more knickers flung at him than most of us have had hot dinners. After scoring his first number one single in 1965 with It's Not Unusual, transatlantic success beckoned with a hit TV show and friendship with fellow snake-hipped singer Elvis Presley. In recent years, Tom has re-established his cool credentials by playing at Glastonbury and duetting with Robbie Williams at the Brit Awards. With songs such as It's Not Unusual, What's New Pussycat and Delilah, Tom has earned his place as a true Brit sex symbol.
30. Cindy Crawford
The queen of the supermodels, Cindy Crawford began modelling aged 15 after reaching the finals of Elite Model Management's Look of the Year competition in 1983. Despite being told early on in her career that she would have to remove her famous mole if she was going to get work, Crawford went on to become one of the most photographed women in the world. She appeared on over 600 magazine covers worldwide. Crawford's sex symbol status was confirmed when she released a fitness workout video in 1992, which sold over 2 million copies in the US.
29. Colin Firth
The sex symbol of the British middle class, Colin Firth found fame as Mr Darcy in the 1995 BBC TV adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. The iconic image of a dripping wet Firth chatting up Jennifer Ehle caused many hearts to flutter, and the character of Darcy has followed him ever since. Helen Fielding was so steamed up by him that she wrote Darcy into her novel, Bridget Jones's Diary. Firth then famously played the character again in the Bridget Jones' Diary movie. See all films by Colin Firth
28. Anna Kournikova
Despite being mediocre with the racket, Anna Kournikova became an overnight tennis sensation after scraping through to the semis at Wimbledon in 1997. However, perhaps sensing that the tabloids were only interested in her looks, Anna's career on court faded as fast as her status as a sex symbol rose. That she remains female sport's number one sex symbol, despite being retired, says it all really.
27. James Dean
What is it about rebels that make them so damn sexy? Despite, or maybe because, of the fact that he starred in only three films - East of Eden (1955), Rebel Without a Cause (1955) and Giant (1956) - Dean's impact on society has been huge. With his iconic good looks, flowing hair and tortured stare, James Dean captured the hearts of a generation who understood exactly what it meant to feel trapped within post-war America, and then broke them after a car crash tragically end his life in 1955. Since then, his beauty has become a cult and the poster image for rebellion. See all films by James Dean
26. Cameron Diaz
Blonde, beautiful and sweet, Cameron Diaz is one of the sexiest women in Hollywood. After starting out as a model, Diaz unexpectedly landed a role alongside Jim Carrey in The Mask (1994). Her leggy performance helped make the movie a smash and catapulted Diaz to stardom. Since then, she has proved herself to be an incredibly versatile actress, in comedies like There's Something About Mary (1998), blockbusters like Charlie's Angels (2000) and independent movies like Being John Malkovich (1999). Women were envious when she bagged Justin Timberlake, but we secretly think he's the lucky one. See all films by Cameron Diaz
25. Tom Cruise
Poor ol' Tom doesn't appear in many sex symbol lists these days. His bizarre private life (a devout Scientologist, he is married to Katie Holmes, 16 years his junior) means Tom is more likely to appear in the gossip pages. But back in the '80s and '90s, he was the man, thanks to classic films like Top Gun (1986), Cocktail (1988), Mission Impossible (1996) and Jerry Maguire (1996). A return to form in War of the Worlds (2005) and Collateral (2004) means Tom is still a worthy sex symbol nominee, but for how long? See all films by Tom Cruise
24. Sophia Loren
This Mediterranean sex bomb is one of the most beautiful women to have ever graced the big screen. Best remembered as the voluptuous siren of many Italian sex comedies, Loren was also the first actress to win an Oscar for a performance entirely in a foreign language (for Two Women in 1961), proving she could also act as well. She also starred in the Pride and the Passion (1957), El Cid (1961) and The Fall of the Roman Empire (1964). Loren is famously once supposed to have said 'sex appeal is 50% what you've got and 50% what people think you've got'. Well, she had 100%. See all films by Sophia Loren
23. Brigitte Bardot
Two words: 'sex kitten'. French actress Brigitte Bardot was the sexual revolution of the 1950s and 1960s - watch Roger Vadim's And God Created Woman (1956) if you don't believe us. At a time when America was censorship-obsessed and prudish, Bardot represented European sexual confidence. The French icon is not simply a sex symbol however. Since retiring from acting in 1974, Bardot has worked tirelessly to promote the rights of animals. Le Fondation Brigitte Bardot fought against the use of fur in fashion long before the issue became popular. See all films by Brigitte Bardot
22. Pamela Anderson
That Pamela Anderson has appeared on the cover of Playboy more times than any other woman in history means one thing, she's beyond sexy. Famously discovered after appearing on the big screen at a sports stadium, Anderson became an international star, running around a lot in a swimsuit on Baywatch. Her perfect barbie doll figure has since appeared in numerous films, making her the benchmark of beauty in the new millennium. Her highly unusual appearance in Sacha Baron Cohen's Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (2006) movie has cemented her place in the annals of British history. See all films by Pamela Anderson
21. James Bond
Nearly all of the women who ever sleep with James Bond wind up dead, so why do they still fall for him? Maybe it's the British charm. Like no other movie franchise, James Bond has endured the trials of time. Through nearly 50 years and 20 films he has gone on saving the world and getting the girl. Sean Connery was so sexy that he probably set Bond's attractiveness in stone for eternity. Of all the actors that have followed him, perhaps only Pierce Brosnan has come close to Connery. See all James Bond films
20. Robbie Williams
Robbie's sex symbol status has more to do with his cheeky chappy persona than his tattooed torso, though that probably doesn't hurt. The charismatic crooner effortlessly wins over ladies and lads alike - an amazing stage presence, mixed with a tortured soul and Rob's inability to find love, leave fans swooning. His sexual magnetism is so strong it has even survived his ill-advised penchant for prancing around in dodgy pants emblazoned with a tiger motif.
19. Colin Farrell
Women find Colin Farrell's bad boy persona impossible to resist (especially women in Hollywood it seems). Hailing from Dublin, Farrell's early role on British TV in Ballykissangel (1996) gave us no idea of what was to come. Plucked from nowhere by Joel Schumacher to star as a Texan GI in Tigerland (2000), Farrell's performance caused a stir in Hollywood. Roles in Minority Report (2002), SWAT (2003) and Alexander (2004) have demonstrated that he is an actor of genuine talent. Farrell's hard-drinking fast-living lifestyle harks back to the age of Richard Burton and Oliver Reed, and Hollywood is all the sexier for it. See all films by Colin Farrell
18. Debbie Harry
Possibly the sexiest rock-chick ever, Debbie Harry had worked as a Playboy Bunny and sang in a band called Wind in the Willows before she met Chris Stein in 1973. The two fell in love and created the band Blondie, which would go on to become one of the most successful bands of the 70s and 80s. Her wild lifestyle, seductive vocals, crazy personality and impossible blonde beauty made her the ultimate front woman and the fantasy of fans across the world. Verdict? Still sexy.
17. Orlando Bloom
Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings trilogy turned Orlando Bloom into an overnight star. The film's younger female fans fell madly in love with Legolas, an elf with flowing blonde hair and androgynous looks - although it must be noted that Viggo Mortensen gave him a run for his money. Rather than fade away, Orlando has gone on to become one of the most sought after actors in Hollywood and has starred in Pirates of the Caribbean (2003), Troy (2004) and Kingdom of Heaven (2005). His matinee idol good looks throw females everywhere into mass hysteria. See all films by Orlando Bloom
16. Sarah Michelle Gellar
It wasn't Sarah's blonde locks or girl-next door appeal that first made her a sex symbol - it was her ferocious butt-kicking in the title role of long-running TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Men quivered in delight as the petite actress defied the odds to slay vampires and demons twice her size. Yep, Sarah was jailbait for demons, and the viewing public lapped it up. Since, Sarah has had big screen success in Cruel Intentions (1999) and Scooby-Doo (2002), also squeezing in a wedding to co-star Freddie Prinze Jr. See all films by Sarah Michelle Gellar
15. Uma Thurman
Uma is an unconventional beauty. She may be blond blue-eyed and statuesque but she also has an ethereal quality and a self-proclaimed 'unusual face' which only add to her universal appeal. But Uma still knows how to do sexy, vamping it up on the dancefloor with John Travolta in Pulp Fiction (1994) and kicking butt as a murderous bride in Kill Bill (2003). But her starring role as Swedish bombshell Ulla in the big screen remake of The Producers (2005) could be her sexiest yet. See all films by Uma Thurman
14. Alan Rickman
The thinking lady's crumpet, Alan Rickman started the Hollywood trend of using Englishmen when supreme villainy was required in a blockbuster. As the despicably charming Hans Gruber he stole the show from Bruce Willis in Die Hard (1988), and was far sexier than the mullet-haired Kevin Costner in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves (1991). The secret of Rickman's charm lies in his voice. Is it just us, or was Marvin the robot actually sexy in The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy? See all films by Alan Rickman
13. Liz Taylor
Forget the fact that Michael Jackson wants to look like her. At the peak of her stardom, Elizabeth Taylor was one of the sexiest people ever to have walked the earth. Her striking beauty wowed Hollywood and the world in such films as Giant (1956), Raintree County (1957), Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), Suddenly, Last Summer (1959) and Butterfield 8 (1960). In 1963, Taylor was paid a colossal $1m in 1963 to star in Cleopatra (1963), where she met husband number five, and six, Richard Burton. Their stormy relationship steamed up tabloid papers across the globe. See all films by Liz Taylor
12. Madonna
Considered by many as the ultimate sex symbol, Madge's sexiness spans three decades. And now over 50, some say she's looking better than ever - check out her 'Hung Up' video, where she prances about in a pink leotard, for proof. From her 1980s obsession with crucifixes and lace to the pointy bras and platinum hair extensions of the 1990s, Madonna oozes sex, never more blatantly than with the release of her 'Sex' book in 1992. She's also squeezed in a few film roles, most notably Desperately Seeking Susan (1985) and Evita (1996), for which she won a Golden Globe.See all films by Madonna
11. Marlon Brando
One of the finest actors America ever produced, Marlon Brando was also a powerful sex symbol. Forget the incredibly large man we knew towards the end of his life, Brando in A Street Car Named Desire (1951), Julius Caesar (1953), The Wild One (1954) and On the Waterfront (1954) was the sexiest thing the screen had ever seen. His acting revolutionised Hollywood - without Brando there would be no James Dean, Paul Newman or Robert De Niro. He also remained a potent force well into middle age, as his towering performance in the explicit Last Tango in Paris (1972) demonstrates. See all films by Marlon Brando
10. Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson has the power to make grown men go weak at the knees. A blonde bombshell with acting talent to burn, she graduated from indie roles in films like Ghost World (2001) to international stardom in Lost in Translation (2003). As the object of Bill Murray's desire in Sofia Coppola's Japan-set movie, Johansson seduced the world. The opening of the film, in which the camera lingers on her shapely behind, is one of the sexiest moments captured on film. Further roles as a seductress in Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003), In Good Company (2004) and Match Point (2005) have confirmed Johansson as a peerless sex symbol. See all films by Scarlett Johansson
9. Johnny Depp
The man who can make scissorhands sexy, Johnny Depp is a sex symbol for almost every generation you can think of. Teenagers fancy him in films like What's Eating Gilbert Grape (1993), Edward Scissorhands (1990) and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998). Adults fancy him in roles like Donnie Brasco (1997), Finding Neverland (2004) and Pirates of the Caribbean (2003). You'd have to be pretty weird to fancy him in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005) though, as he looks a little too much like Michael Jackson. See all films by Johnny Depp
8. Kylie
They must be the sexiest sisters in the world. Kylie and Dannii have been figures of fantasy since they were the teenage stars of Neighbours and Home and Away respectively. Having dominated the Australian soaps, the pair then both decided to become pop stars. Although Kylie has won the battle of the charts and used her cute rear to sell far more records, Dannii has dated Formula One drivers and appeared in Playboy.
7. George Clooney
Was George Clooney the sexiest TV doctor ever? After years as a jobbing TV actor in Hollywood, Clooney hit the big time in the medical drama ER, starring as the womanising Dr Doug Ross. His classical good looks and the twinkle in his eye make him irresistible to women the world over. Roles in films like Out of Sight (1998), Three Kings (1999), The Perfect Storm (2000), Ocean's Eleven (2001) and Intolerable Cruelty (2003) have placed him at the top of Hollywood's A-List - best to forget Batman and Robin (1997). The ultimate older man. See all films by George Clooney
6. Lara Croft
The first of the sexy video game characters, Lara Croft is an international sensation. The Amazonian heroine of the Tomb Raider series is a kind of upper-class, British, female Indiana Jones. Her pneumatic figure, gun toting attitude and tight shorts made Lara the fantasy of gamers everywhere. The fact that Angelina Jolie was hired to bring Lara to life in the Tomb Raider movie franchise has only added to her status as a sex symbol. In her most recent incarnation however, Lara's considerable assets have been toned down to make her more appealing to female players. Read our review of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider
5. Brad Pitt
Do we even need to explain that women find Brad Pitt sexy? The Hollywood star with the body of marble exploded onto the movie scene as Geena Davies' seducer, in Thelma & Louise (1991), and since then he hasn't looked back. Able to charm mass audiences in blockbusters like Ocean's Eleven (2001) and Troy (2004), and turn in blistering performances in edgy movies like Se7en (1995) and Fight Club (1999), Pitt has proved himself a talented actor. Will Pitt's status as a sex symbol fall now that his fairytale marriage to Jennifer Aniston has ended, or will all the girls simply blame Angelina Jolie? See all films by Brad Pitt
4. Beyonce
The woman who put the crazy in love is one of the music world's biggest sex symbols. One of the founding members and lead singer of Destiny's Child, it helped that her dad was the manager - Beyonce threw off the shackles of being in a group and went solo in 2003. Now, she is a 'triple threat', with successful albums, movies and perfumes pulling in millions. We should celebrate Beyonce - she's one of the few female members of the A-List that doesn't seem to be starving herself to death.
3. Marilyn Monroe
One of the most celebrated stars Hollywood has ever produced, for many Marilyn Monroe is the most famous sex symbol that ever lived. Her first role was in The Asphalt Jungle (1950), but after 20th Century Fox signed her, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953) and The Seven Year Itch (1955) propelled her star into the stratosphere. Haunted by psychological problems, Monroe would eventually turn to drugs and be dead by 1962, but she has remained an icon of sex in the West (rather ironically as she is supposed to have hated it). Although her acting talent is often ignored, Monroe also turned in marvellous performances in Some Like It Hot (1959) and The Misfits (1961). See all films by Marilyn Monroe
2. Elvis
Elvis was the most attractive music star of his time - and even years after his death is still the King of the sex symbols. When the young Elvis brought rock'n'roll into the mainstream in the 1950s, his gyrating hips created hysteria in a whole generation of teenage girls. So frightened of his sexual power was conservative America that TV companies were banned from filming him below the waist. Elvis had sold over 600m records by the time he died, and probably seduced nearly as many women. See all films by Elvis Presley
1. Angelina Jolie
The daughter of John Voight may have won an Oscar for Girl, Interrupted (1999), but it was her uplifting performance as Lara Croft in Tomb Raider (2001) that established Jolie as an international sex symbol. Her kinkiness - wearing a vial of partner Billy Bob Thornton's blood around her neck - only seems to increase Jolie's sex appeal. After Brad Pitt succumbed to her charms while starring alongside her in Mr & Mrs Smith (2005), Hollywood wives everywhere must be praying their husband doesn't become Jolie's next co-star. See all films by Angelina Jolie
