Actor Hugh Jackman poses on the red carpet at the world premiere of his new film "Australia" in Sydney November 18, 2008. [Agencies]

Hugh Jackman is the Sexiest Man Alive.

The "Australia" actor topped People magazine's annual list of the most attractive guys in the world, after sending female hearts fluttering in a string of hit movies, including "X-Men", "The Prestige" and "Scoop".

Explaining their choice, the magazine wrote: He's a triple threat - a star who can sing, dance and wield a weapon. At 6ft 2in, all scruff and biceps, Jackman, 40, looms large in the epic "Australia" and left people stammering, 'Oh... my... God!' according to co-star Nicole Kidman."

"Quantum of Solace" actor Daniel Craig - who reprised his role as British spy James Bond in the new film - was close behind Hugh in second place, having wowed female fans in the movie with his muscular body and striking blue eyes.

Jon Hamm - the star of hit US TV show "Mad Men" - came in third, while "High School Musical" heartthrob Zac Efron and "Lipstick Jungle" hunk Robert Buckley rounded off the top five.

Soccer player David Beckham, Oscar-winner Javier Bardem, "Twilight" star Robert Pattinson, former "Dawson's Creek" actor Joshua Jackson and Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps all featured in the list.

Previous holders of the prestigious title include George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Matt Damon.