We love them, we hate them, we love them again. The men in our lives are so important and while we probably hate to admit it, they’re pretty great. So what better way to celebrate International Men’s Day than with a round up of some of the most influential men who’ve been making waves in 2019…
Stormzy
Stormzy came onto the scene in 2014 with his YouTube freestyles and has since paved the way for British grime artists. His debut album reached number one, the first grime album ever to dominate the charts. Not only that, he’s co-founded #MerkyBooks with Penguin Random House to provide a space for a new generation of voices, launched a Cambridge scholarship for black students and has widely supported those affected by the victims of the Grenfell fire. The only way is up.
Tony Dela Rocha
He may not be a household name yet, but Tony Dela Rocha is the founder of @worldofplussize an Instagram account that supports every style, race, gender and size and we’re here for it. With over 30k followers on Instagram, he not only serves amazing style but with a strong and positive message too.
David Beckham
No list of influential men could be complete without David Beckham. Sportsman, father, husband, model, spokesperson, the list goes on. He’s also a dedicated UNICEF ambassador and has been a sponsor since 2005. The definition of a classic English gent, we could all learn a thing or two from David.
Ian Alexander
New to the world of Celebrity, Ian Alexander has redefined masculinity, coming out as transgender in 2014. From his small time in the spotlight he’s already challenging the perception that all masculinity is toxic. He is breaking new ground for LGBTQ+ visibility and striving for equality, acceptance and dignity for all. Alexander is a largely visible trans person in the media, inspiring and creating positive impact in the world of trans visibility. We say watch this space.
Idris Elba
It goes without saying that 2019 has been a year of highs for Idris Elba. Not only is he an on-screen star, DJ and producer but a community idol, winning the Britannia Humanitarian award and becoming an ambassador for Global Goal Live for gender equality, human capital and sustainable economies. He doesn’t look too bad in a suit either.
Prince Harry
Prince Harry’s charity work steps out of the norms of royal engagement. He’s the pioneer of the Invictus games along with his work for help the heroes, World Aids Day and countless other charities that he supports, following in Princess Diana’s footsteps. This October, he also introduced Every Mind Matters, the NHS new mental health awareness app and is one of the many celebrities to endorse changes in mental health services.
John Legend
If you haven’t listened to John Legend and imagined you’re in a music video, looking out of the window watching the rain, you’re lying to yourself. Not just an incredible musician, he’s an amazing dad to Luna and Miles and his relationship with wife Chrissy is actual #goals. He also speaks up for what he believes is and has supported over 47 charities.
Tom Hardy
Tom Hardy is more than just an actor. As a homegrown star on the big screen, he’s played heroes and villains and we love him as both tbh. His Cbeebies series where he reads bedtime to children went viral, not just with the kids, plus he LOVES dogs. Dream man much? He’s also an avid campaigner for animals and has become the face of PETAs Adoption Is Love campaign.
Leonardo DiCaprio
90’s heart throb Leonardo DiCaprio has stolen hearts and minds throughout his career, but it’s his recent work for climate change that’s really changing the world. A dedicated activist, he uses his celebrity influence to educate and inform about the dangers of climate change. Caring, talented, passionate, stylish. He can do no wrong.