The British actor and actress topped the publication’s 50 sexiest male and female film stars poll undertaken by over 50,000 fans.

It is the biggest vote of its kind and took place on empireonline.com, collecting a staggering 230,000 votes from all over the world.

Benedict’s top spot was shortly followed by fellow Brit Tom Hiddleston. The pair both starred as war officers in Steven Spielberg‘s 2011 film War Horse.

The UK prevailed in third place as well, with Henry Cavill named. The top five is completed by American heartthrobs Ryan Gosling and Robert Downey Jr.

Rounding out the top ten are Chris Hemsworth, Robert Pattinson, Michael Fassbender, Hugh Jackman and Bradley Cooper.

Emma also beat a host of Hollywood beauties to come out at number one. Her title comes after she appeared for six years running in men’s magazine FHM’s 100 Sexiest Women.

In a close second place is Scarlett Johansson, who has previously topped various polls such as Sexiest Celebrity by Playboy Magazine in 2007.

The top five females are completed by Jennifer Lawrence, Kristen Stewart and Anne Hathaway. Anne changed her appearance drastically after filming hit 2012 feature Les Misérables, which saw her shave off her iconic long brown hair and lose a staggering amount of weight to play prostitute Fantine.

Actresses Emma Stone, Mila Kunis, Natalie Portman, Angelina Jolie and Zoe Saldana take the remaining in the top ten.

© Cover Media

NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 08:  Rihanna attends the Opening Ceremony fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring 2014 at SuperPier 25 on September 8, 2013 in New York City.  (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images)

More in News (5 of 20 articles)

Rihanna in home invader horror Read More