Patrick Dempsey It’s keeping it real.

The actor, 58, speaks in this week’s issue of PEOPLE about to be named the sexiest man alive in 2023shortly before this year’s election will be revealed on November 12.

When asked if he used the coveted title to his advantage in any way, Dempsey says with a laugh: “No, it makes me more anxious. I needed to stay in shape, train more.”

“But it’s amazing how far-reaching it is,” he continued. “I think it’s a tremendous platform to do something positive… It’s allowed me to talk about The Dempsey Center (which focuses on cancer care).”

“Fame in itself is pretty empty, but if you can do something and you can help, that’s what life is really about and it gives you meaning and joy,” adds the Grey’s Anatomy alum.

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According to Dempsey, being named PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive was an honor, though he says he generally doesn’t take it too seriously.

“It’s very good for the ego, but it’s very subjective,” he says. nice to meet you admits the star. “There are so many wonderful men who are attractive in so many ways, whether just physically or just as people, so you take it seriously enough to be grateful, but don’t take it too seriously.”

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As for winning the title after previous honorees, including stars like Chris Evans, Idris Elba, David Beckham, Bradley Cooper, George Clooney and Matthew McConaugheysays Dempsey, “It’s a great group of people to be a part of.”

“There is some notable men who have done incredible things, so it’s nice to be a part of that,” he adds.

For more on Patrick Dempsey, pick up this week’s issue of PEOPLE, available now.