The annual tradition of ranking the world's most beautiful and handsome faces was marked once again as TC Candler revealed its 2024 results on December 28. The release continues to stir conversation around beauty standards and representation across cultures.
Leading the list of the Most Beautiful Faces is Andrea Brillante from the Philippines, captivating audiences as both an actress and model at just 21 years old. Following her closely is Jisoo from the popular Korean girl group BLACKPINK, known for her dual roles as singer and actress, who ranks second. Meanwhile, Canadian chess player Andrea Botez, at 22, rounds out the top three.
The rankings boast notable representation from Japan, which has consistently seen artists acknowledged. TWICE's Sana claimed the 22nd spot, with other Japanese talents like former AKB48 star Nanako Owada at 30th, and MEOVV's Anna at 50th. The list carries significance not just among Asian communities but also reflects Western interests as K-Pop artists continue to gain global popularity.
Interestingly, the presence of familiar faces from previous rankings is apparent. While Hydrangea's Hirano Airi made it onto last year's list, this year saw newcomers like XG’s Cocona, who debuted at 99th place. The beautiful faces collection showcased 10 Japanese individuals, including the model Honoka Ikeda at 80th.
Critics often voice concerns over the lists, questioning the ambiguous criteria of selection. Some argue it perpetuates lookism, merely shifting focus based on aesthetics rather than talent or character. Ken Akasaka, reporting on societal responses to the ranking, stated, "The selections of the Most Beautiful and Handsome Faces have often sparked discussions about beauty standards." This highlights the growing divide between admiration for beauty and concerns about long-term societal values.
Turning the lens to the Most Handsome Faces, the coveted top position resides with Australian actor Chris Hemsworth, renowned for his charismatic roles. He is followed by Hong Kong’s Mirror member Keung To and Chinese actor Zhang ZheHan, who occupy the second and third places, respectively.
This year, Japanese representation within the handsome category is notable, too, with ENHYPEN's NI-KI earning the fifth spot and FANTASTICS’ Yusei Yagi at 75th. Other entries include K from AND TEAM making it to 89th. These rankings not only signify physical appearance but also reflect cultural significance and fandom attachment to these celebrities.
The 2024 results have cultivated intriguing discussions about diversity and inclusivity. Admissibly, it appears public debate about the influence of social media and the reality of beauty has tethered as viewers reacquaint themselves with the artists and public figures who dominate pop culture.
Beyond entertainment, these lists breathe life to discourse on beauty ideals and societal expectations. Close observations show the peripheries of beauty perceptions, whether through the lens of endorsement by influential figures or heated conversations on platforms dedicated to breaking biases, stigma, and preconceptions about aesthetics.
Even though each year welcomes slight alterations and surprises, the core discourse surrounding these lists continues to resonate. They intertwine the idea of beauty with popular culture, capturing both admiration and criticism with every reveal. This push and pull between perception and reality is what keeps such annual lists relevant and pivotal, ensuring they highlight both beauty and the socio-cultural aspects entwined within.
Despite the criticism, fans worldwide await these rankings with enthusiasm. The eclectic mix of artists, models, and actors across the spectrum showcases not only beauty but also varying elements of cultural identities, reminding audiences of the beauty found within diversity itself.
With another year's ranking announced, the discussions around beauty standards are likely to gain momentum, compelling individuals to question, celebrate, and reshape their views on aesthetics and identity as the world feels the pulse of pop culture.
