Patrick Sébastien, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?

  • By Elizabeth Sy
  • Paris
  • Last updated on

Patrick Sébastien among finalists for TIME’s 2026 Person of the Year?

According to a top source, Patrick Sébastien is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the comedian's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.

UPDATE 11/01/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Why not Sébastien 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 72-year-old comedian, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.

“What makes Sébastien 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 comedian have already been named ‘French Of The Year’ by some major French newspapers and even ‘Brive-la-Gaillarde Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Brive-la-Gaillarde (Patrick Sébastien's hometown).

Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year

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

“#SébastienPOY. Logical choice though I wouldn't have made the same one.”
— @TomMiller, 10 Jan 2026
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LovePatrick”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 10 Jan 2026
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Patrick Sébastien?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 10 Jan 2026

Could 2026 officially be the Year of Patrick Sébastien?

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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