Matthew McConaughey and Mila Kunis among People mag’s People of the Year

The list honoured stars on the strength of their efforts to help others.
Matthew McConaughey and Mila Kunis among People mag’s People of the Year

By AP Reporters

Matthew McConaughey, Mila Kunis, Jennifer Hudson and Abbott Elementary creator and star Quinta Brunson have been named People magazine’s 2022 People of the Year.

The magazine unveiled its annual list on Wednesday, with editor-in-chief Wendy Naugle explaining this year’s winners were selected because of their efforts to help others.

McConaughey was chosen for his advocacy efforts after the Uvalde school shooting rocked his hometown.

Matthew McConaughey
Matthew McConaughey (Ian West/PA)

Kunis was lauded for her fundraising – which People said has topped $37 million (€35 million) – for Ukraine, where she was born.

Brunson and Hudson were honoured for their onscreen work.

Hudson, who launched a daytime talk show this year, was cited for her efforts to create an inclusive show where everyone felt welcome.

Jennifer Hudson
Jennifer Hudson (Matt Crossick/PA)

Brunson’s Abbott Elementary, a critical hit that turned her into an Emmy winner, was praised as a show that brought many joy and showed that different generations can work well together.

Each of the honourees are featured on a special cover that highlights their contributions.

Kunis’s includes the quote: “I’m proud to be from Ukraine,” while Brunson includes her statement: “I’m a sign that times are changing.”

McConaughey’s proclaims: “We have to do better for our kids,” while Hudson’s says: “I’m living my dream – and learning as I go.”

Previous People winners have included George Clooney, Regina King, Dr Anthony Fauci, Sandra Oh, Selena Gomez and Simone Biles.

This year’s special editions will be released on Friday.

More in this section

Anne Hathaway praises ‘unbelievable’ co-star Meryl Streep Anne Hathaway praises ‘unbelievable’ co-star Meryl Streep
Olivia Munn says cancer journey led her to be ‘kinder to myself’ Olivia Munn says cancer journey led her to be ‘kinder to myself’
Hunger Games star Josh Hutcherson says the films ‘act as a warning’ Hunger Games star Josh Hutcherson says the films ‘act as a warning’

Sponsored Content

AF The College Green Hotel Dublin March 2026 The College Green Hotel: A refined address in the heart of Dublin
SETU and Glassworks set to accelerate innovation SETU and Glassworks set to accelerate innovation
Driving Growth in Munster: How property finance is powering Cork’s future Driving Growth in Munster: How property finance is powering Cork’s future
Contact Us Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited

Add Echolive.ie to your home screen - easy access to Cork news, views, sport and more