Justin Chambers, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?

  • By Elizabeth Sy
  • Washington
  • Last updated on

Justin Chambers among finalists for TIME’s 2026 Person of the Year?

According to a well-informed source, Justin Chambers is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the model's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.

UPDATE 02/01/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Why not Chambers 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 55-year-old model, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.

“What makes Chambers 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 model have already been named ‘American Of The Year’ by some major American newspapers and even ‘Springfield Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Springfield (Justin Chambers' hometown).

Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year

A representative for the model was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:

“Justin Chambers Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 1 Jan 2026
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveJustin”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 1 Jan 2026
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Justin Chambers?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 1 Jan 2026

Could 2026 officially be the Year of Justin Chambers?

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?

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