For the past 22 years, People magazine has chosen the "Sexiest Man Alive" to grace the cover its most popular issue, and this year it’s Matt Damon’s turn to shine.

Hollywood actor Matt Damon was crowned People magazine’s "Sexiest Man Alive" for the first time, following in the footsteps of his pals and "Ocean’s Thirteen" co-stars, George Clooney and Brad Pitt, who were both honored twice with the title.

"George Clooney and Brad Pitt have shamelessly campaigned for him since 2001, but all it takes is one look at Damon's piercing blue eyes, crooked smile and family-guy demeanor to understand why he has been chosen," the magazine said in a statement.

The 37-year-old Oscar-winning screenwriter and star of "Good Will Hunting" and the "Bourne" trilogy will be featured in People's annual "Sexiest Man Alive" issue this week, on newsstands Friday.

"First off, I must say I was floored when I heard you guys voted me the Sexiest Man Alive for 2007," Damon wrote in a letter to the magazine, which he signed, simply, "Matty."

"I guess all the campaigning finally paid off. Ditching Clooney as a campaign manager and going with Brad for the final push was an emotional decision, but I knew it was going to be tight and the youth vote was going to make or break me."

However, Damon accepted the news reluctantly and even suggested someone else for the award.

"You gave an aging suburban dad the ego boost of a lifetime. My 9-year-old stepdaughter now thinks I'm cool - well, cooler," Damon’s letter read.

"At the risk of being forward, if you asked me (which you didn't) I would suggest Patriots quarterback Tom Brady for this award. He's like a taller, better-looking version of me anyway. Plus, he's the best quarterback in the history of football."

"Don't get me wrong, though. I was really shocked and happy (Lucy said I actually blushed) when I heard the news. So I can't thank you enough for that."