Paul Johansson, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?

  • By Elizabeth Sy
  • Washington
  • Last updated on

Paul Johansson among finalists for TIME’s 2026 Person of the Year?

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

UPDATE 23/02/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Why not Johansson 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 62-year-old actor, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.

“What makes Johansson 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 actor have already been named ‘American Of The Year’ by some major American newspapers and even ‘Spokane Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Spokane (Paul Johansson's hometown).

Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year

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

“Paul Johansson Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 22 Feb 2026
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LovePaul”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 22 Feb 2026
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Paul Johansson?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 22 Feb 2026

Could 2026 officially be the Year of Paul Johansson?

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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