Idris Elba, who played the role of Heimdall, the gatekeeper of Asgard in The Avengers franchise, has been named the sexiest man alive, according to People Magazine. The actor, it was revealed, was the latest to receive the annual honour on The Tonight Show earlier this week.

The star spoke to host Jimmy Fallon on the show, and also unveiled a series of "smouldering" poses. On seeing himself on the cover of the magazine, he said, "My mom is going to be really, really proud (sic)."