John Lydon, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?
- By Elizabeth Sy
- London
- Last updated on
Hot news
- Hot February 4, 2026
- Music February 2026
- Rumor Central February 2026
According to a well-informed source, Sex Pistols lead singer John Lydon is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the singer's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.
UPDATE 05/02/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)
Why not Lydon for Person of the Year?
The list of nominees for Time magazine’s Person of the Year is always an eclectic mix of world leaders, pop culture icons, buzzworthy names, and human rights activists. The unexpected inclusion of the 70-year-old singer, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.
“What makes Lydon so important is the potential and influence he now has, rather than anything he has already done,” said a panelist who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that earlier this month, the singer have already been named ‘Briton Of The Year’ by some major British newspapers and even ‘London Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in London (John Lydon's hometown).
Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year
A representative for the singer was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:
“John Lydon Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 4 Feb 2026
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveJohn”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 4 Feb 2026
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not John Lydon?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 4 Feb 2026
Could 2026 officially be the Year of John Lydon?
Still, TIME’s editors will make the final decision about who will grace the magazine’s cover as its 2026 Person of the Year.
Who do you think should be TIME’s Person of the Year for 2026?
© 2026 MediaMass All rights reserved. Do not reproduce (even with permission).
John Lydon: Recent News
- Pets January 30, 2026
- Rumor February 2026
- Buzz February 5, 2026
Celebrity Central