Taylor Kinney Opens Up About Being Named One of the World’s Most Handsome Men of 2025: “I’m Just Grateful People Still Care”
When news broke that Chicago Fire star Taylor Kinney had been crowned one of the World’s Most Handsome Men of 2025, social media lit up like a five-alarm blaze. For fans, it was long overdue recognition for the man who’s spent more than a decade igniting hearts as Lieutenant Kelly Severide. But for Kinney himself, the honor came with a humble smile — and a wave of gratitude.
“I honestly laughed when I first heard,” Kinney admitted during a recent interview. “There are guys on that list who’ve been heartthrobs since I was a kid. So to be mentioned in that company — it’s surreal. I’m grateful, and a little embarrassed, to be honest.”
The actor’s reaction perfectly reflects what fans have come to love about him — his down-to-earth charm and lack of ego. Even as global outlets praised his “timeless masculinity” and “effortless confidence,” Kinney seemed more interested in shining a light on the people who’ve supported him through the years.
“If anything, this is a reflection of the people around me,” he continued. “The cast and crew on Chicago Fire, the fans who’ve stuck with us through every season — they’re the reason I’m even in a position to be noticed. They’ve allowed me to grow as an actor and as a person. That means more than any title ever could.”
It’s that humility — the quiet steadiness behind the smolder — that has made Kinney one of television’s most enduring leading men. While his looks may grab attention, it’s his sincerity that keeps people watching.
“I’ve never really thought of myself as ‘handsome,’” he said with a laugh. “When you’re on set, you’re sweating, covered in soot, doing take after take of a fire scene — trust me, you don’t feel glamorous. The magic is all in the storytelling. If people see something attractive in that, maybe it’s because they connect with the heart behind it.”
Asked how it feels to be recognized alongside global icons like Chris Evans and Michael B. Jordan, Kinney paused for a moment before replying.
“It’s flattering, of course,” he said. “But those guys are movie stars. I’m just a guy from Pennsylvania who got lucky doing what he loves. If someone out there sees this list and it makes them smile, or it reminds them that confidence isn’t about perfection — then I’m all for it.”
The actor also took a moment to reflect on his journey — from his early modeling days to becoming one of NBC’s most beloved faces.
“It’s been a ride,” Kinney said thoughtfully. “Thirteen years on Chicago Fire have changed my life. The friendships, the lessons, the moments of laughter and loss — they’ve shaped me. So when people say kind things about me now, I think about all the people who got me here. My co-stars, the fans, the people who believed in me even when I didn’t fully believe in myself.”
As for what comes next, Kinney keeps his expectations grounded. While Hollywood may be ready to see him in a new light — perhaps as a leading man in a blockbuster or romantic epic — he’s focused on gratitude, not glamour.
“I’m thankful. That’s really the word,” he said simply. “It’s nice to be appreciated, but it’s even better to still be doing what I love — telling stories that mean something to people. Looks fade. But kindness, hard work, and connection — those are what last.”
With that trademark grin, Kinney summed up his feelings about the whirlwind of attention in a single, modest sentence:
“If people think I’m handsome, that’s great. But if they think I’m a good man — that’s what really matters.”
And just like that, Hollywood’s newly crowned king of handsome reminded everyone why he’s been the heart of Chicago Fire for over a decade — because beneath the uniform, the jawline, and the fame, Taylor Kinney remains what he’s always been: genuine, grounded, and grateful.
