The world (outside the Internet) has finally recognized what the rest of us has known for months: Benedict Cumberbatch is a total babe.
Proof: "The Imitation Game" star smoulders on the collector's edition cover of Elle UK's December 2014 issue and looks better than ever.
The photo—a close-up of the 38-year-old Brit—shows the actor doing his best to make us melt with his icy eyes while sporting a cozy dark blue coat. The rest of the photo shoot is also moody, which definitely complements the "Sherlock" star's movie roles. In one pic he sits on a stairwell and rests his head in a fist. In another snap, the handsome star slouches in a chair while wearing only the most dapper of outfits (all blue, of course).
The interview is anything but dark. In it, the "12 Years A Slave" star talks about his friends, family and (swoon) love life.
"It’s a really double-edged sword," he says about dating when you're famous. "You know, you discover why people find you attractive – in a relationship or a tryst – and if it’s just to have a go on you or try you out, then I can smell that a mile off."
But although he probably gets hundreds of dating requests a day, that hasn't put him off romance.
"I hope I’m looking back and going: 'Oh, that was the moment I got on with life and realized things beyond myself.' Without using words like 'marriage' 'children' and 'family' – although I have just used those words – put it this way: I hope I’ve got other people to look back with me at that point. I hope I’m surrounded by family."
The actor, who is rumoured to be Marvel's Doctor Strange, is reportedly dating theatre director Sophie Hunter, and the two have been spotted at several events together.
To see more photos of Benedict, head over to Elle UK.
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