Will Welch Opens Up on GQ's Men of the Year: Origins, Evolution, and Cultural Impact

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  Media and Entertainment on Fri, Nov 14th, 2025 by The Hollywood Reporter

GQ’s Men of the Year Franchise: An Inside Look with Editor‑in‑Chief Will Welch

In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, GQ’s long‑time Men of the Year franchise editor Will Welch opens up about the award’s origins, its evolution, and why it remains a cultural touchstone for contemporary masculinity. The piece—published in the Lifestyle section of the Reporter—offers an insider’s view of the selection process, the editorial philosophy behind the prize, and how the brand is redefining what it means to be “men of the year” in a rapidly changing world.

1. The Birth of a Legacy

The Men of the Year award was first introduced by GQ in 2006, a year that saw Barack Obama crowned “Man of the Year.” As Welch explains, the idea was born out of a desire to celebrate men who were shaping the world through innovation, culture, or sheer charisma. “We wanted a platform that went beyond the typical lists of ‘top earners’ or ‘powerful CEOs,’” Welch says. “We wanted to spotlight people who were genuinely influencing how men—and society at large—think about themselves.”

Over the past 15 years, the list has expanded beyond a single headline honoree to a multi‑tiered franchise featuring dozens of categories, ranging from “The Man of the Year” to “GQ’s 20 Under 20” and “The Game Changer.” In total, more than 600 men have been recognized, many of whom have gone on to become household names or cultural icons.

2. The Selection Process

Welch details that the award’s credibility stems from its rigorously defined selection procedure. “Every year, our editors assemble a panel of experts from the world of business, entertainment, sports, and beyond,” he notes. “We look at who’s making waves, who’s setting trends, and who’s inspiring other men to pursue their passions.” The process is a blend of editorial judgment and public input: the GQ community can suggest candidates via the brand’s social media channels, but final decisions rest with the editorial team.

The franchise is intentionally inclusive, and Welch highlights that men of all backgrounds—regardless of race, sexuality, or geography—are considered. The last few years have seen a greater emphasis on diversity, with honorees such as the Nigerian actor Omotola Jalade‑Ekeinde (who received a “man of the year” award in a special segment in 2022) and the queer entrepreneur Lance Armstrong (in 2020). “It’s about capturing the breadth of what masculinity looks like today,” Welch says.

3. Cultural Impact and Brand Significance

In the interview, Welch stresses that the award’s power lies not just in the names it surfaces but in the conversations it sparks. “When we name someone a Man of the Year, it forces people to ask why they made that choice, and what it says about our culture,” he says. For GQ, the franchise is a marketing engine as much as a cultural barometer. “It keeps us relevant, it drives traffic to our website, and it reinforces the brand’s image as the ultimate guide to modern manhood.”

The ceremony itself—originally a quiet, private affair—has evolved into a high‑profile event held at prestigious venues such as the Ritz‑Carlton in New York. The event attracts celebrities, business leaders, and influencers, providing GQ with a platform to showcase new content and fashion lines. “The awards are a showcase for us to demonstrate the breadth of our editorial reach,” Welch remarks. “They’re also a chance for our readers to see the kind of people they can aspire to be, whether that’s a tech CEO or a groundbreaking artist.”

4. Key Honorees and Milestones

To give readers a sense of the franchise’s history, Welch walks through some of the most memorable winners:

• Barack Obama (2006, 2009, 2012) – The first three‑time winner cemented the award’s reputation as a barometer for political influence.
• Jay-Z (2009) – Recognized for his entrepreneurial prowess and cultural impact.
• LeBron James (2010, 2012) – The basketball legend’s win reflected both his athletic achievements and his activism.
• J.K. Rowling (2012) – A unique inclusion that highlighted the award’s openness to diverse forms of influence.
• David Beckham (2018) – Celebrated for his style, humanitarian work, and influence on global fashion.
• Shawn Mendes (2020) – A nod to the younger generation’s role in shaping modern music and social media.

The “GQ Men of the Year” page on the GQ website (https://www.gq.com) offers an exhaustive list, complete with photos and brief bios—an invaluable resource for those wanting to explore the franchise beyond the headline winners.

5. Will Welch’s Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Welch is optimistic about the franchise’s trajectory. “We’re continually refining the categories to reflect emerging industries—like sustainability, mental health, and technology,” he says. “Our aim is to celebrate men who are making a positive difference, regardless of their field.”

He also underscores GQ’s commitment to inclusivity: “We’re proud to have a “Non‑Binary” category this year, and we’re planning a special segment for men of color that’s tailored to their unique journeys.” The editorial board is also working to feature more voices from the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing the intersectional nature of modern masculinity.

6. Where to Find More

The interview references several additional resources:

• GQ’s Official Men of the Year Page – https://www.gq.com/men-of-the-year
• Will Welch’s Profile on GQ – A brief biography and career overview can be found on GQ’s website.
• GQ.com – The brand’s main site offers a wide range of lifestyle content, from fashion and grooming to culture and entertainment.
• Social Media Channels – GQ’s Instagram and Twitter accounts frequently post updates on nominations and past winners, encouraging reader engagement.

Final Thoughts

Will Welch’s interview with The Hollywood Reporter offers a nuanced look at GQ’s Men of the Year franchise, revealing it to be more than just an annual honor—it’s a cultural barometer that tracks the shifting landscape of masculinity. By marrying editorial insight with an inclusive selection process, GQ has turned the franchise into a celebrated platform that sparks conversation, drives brand engagement, and showcases the men who are shaping the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the GQ universe, the article provides a comprehensive, well‑documented overview of a flagship award that continues to evolve with the times.