Bradley Cooper has been named People magazine's sexiest man alive.

The hunky star topped the 2011 list, stealing the crown from last year's number one Ryan Reynolds.

He's delighted to have received the honour, even though he's not really sure why people find him attractive.

"I think it's really cool that a guy who doesn't look like a model can have this title," he said. "I think I'm a decent-looking guy. Sometimes I can look great, and other times I look horrifying."

Bradley does take the accolade seriously though. He's incredibly close to his mother Gloria and knew she'd be thrilled he'd topped the list.

"The first thing I thought was, 'My mother is going to be so happy,'" he laughed.

Bradley's romance with Rene Zellweger ended earlier this year and he's most recently been linked to Jennifer Lopez. The 36-year-old insists he isn't in a relationship at the moment, explaining rumours about his romantic liaisons are all part of his job.

"If you're a single man and you happen to be in this business, you're deemed a player. But I don't see myself as a ladies' man," he insisted.

The publication explained Bradley landed the top spot due to his stunning looks, glittering career and romantic nature. Asked the most impressive thing he's ever done to lure a lady, Bradley said it would be boarding "a plane to go get" her.

Also featured on the list is 21-year-old Liam Hemsworth, who is dating Miley Cyrus. Idris Elba, Jennifer Aniston's beau Justin Theroux, Chris Evans and Ryan Gosling also get a mention.

People magazine's Sexiest Men Alive 2011 preview:

1. Bradley Cooper

2. Liam Hemsworth

3. Idris Elba

4. Justin Theroux

5. Chris Evans

6. Tim McGraw

7. Josh Charles

8. Joel McHale

9. Jason Momoa

10. Ryan Gosling