But after talking to Wakeford, I understood how people made their choices. I too came away swooning for Rudd. Our delightful conversation about this very important topic, which has been lightly edited for length and clarity, is detailed below.
Wakeford: People’s Staff Meetings [for SMA] There really should be a reality show. It is like an intense debate with legal style arguments. There are sudden voices and a lot of excitement. Amongst us, we take our journalism very, very seriously and very seriously what we choose, because it leads the national conversation for that day. When you’re on the cover of the Sexiest Man Alive issue, you’re the most talked-about person in America for that day.”
CNN: So how did you land on Rudd? (After much debate, Wakeford is the final decision maker.)
“Well, everyone comes to the table with different names and different arguments about what they should be thinking. And when his name was mentioned, I felt something cool. It felt right. He was a slow person. Burns with speed. He’s someone who can’t propel himself in a sexy way or an impressive way. He doesn’t fall for the folly of the celebrity. And he’s very focused on his craft and does a good job. But when You talk to people about it, then all of a sudden you get this amazing wave of intense excitement and he’s just got it.”
CNN: How do your choices fit into the present moment?
“We want stability. And we want security and we want comfort. The last two years have been very disappointing. But we also want to laugh and he’s a nice guy, always joking and so self-deprecating. Meeting him, He has such amazing energy in him and yes, he is so cute in real life.”
CNN: So that’s his overall factor?
“Yeah, he’s a good person. It’s not about his looks. It’s not just about his green, meaty, brown eyes. He’s smart. And he does well. He is.” [raised] $13 million through donations [for] Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. It’s not a show. He’s just a great person and it’s easy to like him. I guess I’ve never had so much positivity about an election. When you think about it, he reminds you of that funny kid in school who is at the back of the class, who was quiet and then would say something really funny and make you laugh.”
CNN: How did so many different people agree on the final choice?
“We have a lot of different personalities from people. And when you get different corners of different types of people all saying ‘yes,’ I think that’s great.”
CNN: How did you choose the final cover shot?
“It’s all about the eyes and that intimate shot was just so amazing … and the little gleam of the biceps. That subtle sensuality is what we love.”
CNN: And how did Paul react when he heard he was the chosen one?
“He was clearly happy and thought it was funny. He knew everyone would be scratching their heads.”
So, Rudd is a funny, all-around great guy. Yes, she is sexy. Plus, now I’m looking at Rudd’s eyes and hair in a new light and well, I guess biceps too.
Thanks for this, Dan.
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