Somebody check the thermostat. And you might want to locate a fire extinguisher.
They could be called foxes, lookers, stunners, dreamboats, dishes, or headturners. But to us, they’ll always be hotties.
With a record number of reader nominations this year, it was harder than ever to pick. But we narrowed it down to 15 Memphians — none of whom are married — and asked them our burning questions.
This being Memphis, the group includes a number of musicians, models, actors and actresses, and even a fire performer.
Thanks to everyone who nominated someone and to our hotties for agreeing to be part of this issue.
Burn, baby, burn.
Nadia Sophia, 22
Leo
Student, Fire/Hula Hoop Performer
Dating
Nadia Sophia is so hot she carries her own fire insurance. Seriously.
The 22-year-old college student began eating fire after years of martial arts training. Then, last year around this time, she also took up hula-hooping and belly dancing to help her get in shape, ultimately incorporating both practices in her performances. The end result is a sultry show that smolders and smokes.
What are you afraid of?
Failure.
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
I don’t really watch TV, so I don’t know. [Asks friends in background.] Cops, Project Runway, L.A. Ink.
How do you like your eggs?
I enjoy my eggs every morning with rice and soy sauce.
What’s your best feature?
When someone first meets me, probably the mole on my chin.
What was the first job you ever had?
I worked at a record store in the Hickory Ridge Mall. It was just like that movie Empire Records.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
I’ve got to think about things I cannot make on the island. I could probably make a hula hoop, so I don’t have to bring that. I guess I’d bring a book or something to write on, paintbrushes, and a knife.
Favorite food?
Filipino food made by my mother.
High heels or flats?
Barefoot.
If you were arrested tomorrow, what do you think you’d be arrested for?
Trespassing. I really love rooftops.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
They have to keep an open mind and be as active and passionate as I am if they have any chance at all.
Andre Gibson, 28
Taurus
Systems Integration Admininstrator for
Buckman USA
Single
As vice chair of the Memphis City Beautiful Commission, Andre Gibson has a hand in beautifying Memphis. But since moving to the city five years ago, he’s also made it that much more handsome.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Quiet but funny.
Craziest thing you’ve ever done?
I’ve gotten into several prank wars that have gotten really crazy. I think I’m going to leave it at that.
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
The Amazing Race. I like traveling and adventure.
Favorite pickup line?
I’ve used this as a joke: I’m Mr. Right. I hear you were looking for me.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I used to write short stories, but I don’t anymore.
What was the first job you ever had?
Selling TVs at Circuit City.
Favorite sports team?
Grizzlies. You can put some exclamation points behind it.
What are your deal-breakers?
Texting during a date.
How do you feel about blind dates?
They can be scary. It’s hard enough to make a good connection when you meet someone face to face.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
You might have to do most of the talking.
Lindsey Siebrase, 26
Aquarius
Hair Stylist
Single
There’s a good chance that Lindsey Siebrase is the female incarnation of Cupid. Not only was she born on Valentine’s Day, she’s something of a matchmaker. She’s set up nine couples who have gotten married, with subsequently one divorce. But hey! That’s way better than the national average.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Funny, happy, thoughtful.
How do you feel about blind dates?
I’ve never been on a successful one, but I like to set up people on them. I’m good at finding what other people want.
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
I have five sisters. If you took the Kardashians and the Osbournes, that would be my family.
Favorite pickup line?
I think pickup lines are wrong. No one should be using them. I want to write a dating book.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I can play the piano really well. I like to fancy myself a Martha Stewart. I was so bored when I was snowed in, I was tye-dying T-shirts for my nephew.
What was the first job you ever had?
Babysitting this girl — she was a nightmare. She used to run me over with her Barbie car. No, wait. My first job was detassling corn in Indiana. I couldn’t reach the tassles, so my best friend had to help me. I was soaked in water and mud. Your parents have to hate you to make you pull the tassels off the top of corn stalks.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
I have to take my iPhone, because I’m a compulsive texter; my makeup; and my Kindle.
What are your deal-breakers?
You don’t know them until they happen.
High heels or flats?
Always high heels. I was born in them.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
I was homecoming queen, class favorite, and all that cheesy crap.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
Good luck.
Christyn Breckenridge, 24
Leo
Administrative Assistant for a probation company
Single
The person who nominated Christyn Breckenridge said she was an angel and always had a smile on her face.
We found that to be true. But we also found that Breckenridge is living proof that sometimes blind dates do work out. Her parents met on a blind date and have been married for 25 years.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Fun, legendary, strong.
Legendary?
I like to leave an impact. Anything I do, I don’t want it done in vain.
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
Something like I Want to Work for Diddy, because I’ve got that competitive spirit in me.
Do you have any hidden talents?
People tell me all the time I should be a voice animator. I’m silly. I imitate actors and comedians, but I don’t take it seriously.
What was the first job you ever had?
I worked at Popeyes for two weeks. That’s when I realized manual labor was not for me. That’s why I quit. They wanted me to take out the trash.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
iPhone — there’s an app for everything — water, and I need a weapon, something like a taser gun. When it gets dark, I won’t know what’s coming out.
What are your deal-breakers?
I like gentlemen. If they try to say, Are you going to pay? Uh-uh. Check, please. Or if the first thing they want to talk about is sex, that’s a turn-off.
High heels or flats?
High heels. I’m 5’2″. I have short woman syndrome.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
Most attractive.
How do you feel about blind dates?
I’ve never been on a blind date, but I’m open-minded about it. My parents actually met on a blind date, and they were married six months later.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
Be yourself.
Misti Rae Warren, 30
Aries
Receptionist, Singer/Songerwiter, Artist
Single
Misti Rae Warren is a singer and songwriter, as well as an artist, dancer, and photographer. But her multiple nominations — possibly the most of anyone ever nominated for a hotties issue — also mentioned her kind heart, her sense of humor, and her sense of style.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Creative, grateful, honest.
Craziest thing you’ve ever done?
So many to choose from …
What are you afraid of?
Losing loved ones.
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
May my life never come to that.
Do you play any musical instruments?
Guitar, ukelele, Autoharp, some piano.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
The yet-to-be-discovered love of my life, my guitar, and a flare gun.
Favorite food?
Peanut butter Twix.
What do you look for in a date?
Sense of humor, creativity, backbone.
Would you rather call someone or text them?
Call. I like to hear people’s tone of voice.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
Most unique.
Favorite movie?
Amélie.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
I’d like for them to be able to figure that out on their own.
Chris Thomsen, 24
Virgo
Flight Instructor
In a relationship
Flight instructor Chris Thomsen grew up in Memphis, but moved to Botswana to become a bush pilot — they were hiring people with low flight time — before returning to the Mid-South. His advice for anyone wanting to date him? Be willing to travel.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Adventurous, curious, imaginative.
How do you feel about blind dates?
They’re good. It’s exciting to get that feeling that something spontaneous and unexpected can happen.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done?
I moved to Africa with a backpack. I was living in Seattle at the time, and I got a plane ticket for the next week. I took three weeks off from work and figured if I got the job, I wouldn’t come back. I had a Marmot backpack and a mummy tent.
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
One of those Survivor-type shows where you have to fend for yourself.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I like to take pictures.
What was the first job you ever had?
I scooped ice cream at Baskin-Robbins when I was 14. I was well on my way to having carpal tunnel by the time I was 15.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
Pen, paper, and a seaplane.
What do you look for in a date?
Good conversation. I’m usually the timid one, so someone who is animated.
Would you rather call someone or text them?
Call, but I think people these days just want to text.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
Best dressed. I didn’t think I was, but my girlfriend ran the yearbook. I got put into way too many pictures.
Favorite movie?
City of God.
If you were arrested tomorrow, what do you think you’d be arrested for?
Protesting. I have an undergrad in political science. I get passionate about issues sometimes.
April Hibler, 32
>Aries
Student/Preschool Teacher at Hope House
Single
You may recognize April Hibler from Hattiloo Theatre’s productions of The Black Nativity and For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf. Because chances are, if you’ve seen her, you will remember it.
But she’s not just beautiful on the outside. While currently a full-time student at the University of Memphis, Hibler also works at Hope House, teaching children infected or affected by AIDS.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Driven, passionate, witty.
Craziest thing you’ve ever done?
When I was 11, we went to New York. I walked up the stairs of the Statue of Liberty in my socks. It was the worst thing ever. My feet were so swollen that my dad had to carry me back down.
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
The Apprentice. I’m detail-oriented and I’m creative. I think I’d be great at it.
How do you like your eggs?
Scrambled with cheddar cheese.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Singing and photography.
What was the first job you ever had?
I was a tour guide at Graceland when I was 16. I loved Elvis when I was younger. I wanted to be a singer and I knew he came from humble beginnings.
Graceland was right down the street from my high school. I went there and told them all the things I knew about Elvis, and they said it was a no-brainer. I should be a tour guide.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
My son, my iPod, and my laptop.
What are your deal-breakers?
Belching really loudly and not saying excuse me.
High heels or flats?
High heels all day long.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
I was the parliamentarian for the senior class. It comes in handy with keeping order in the classroom.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
Be very patient. Slow and easy wins the race.
Jessica “Juice” Morgan, 20
Gemini
Actress/Student
Available, especially for Marc Gasol
Actress Jessica “Juice” Morgan’s last role was a German dominatrix in a short film. Some of the filmmakers she worked with thought her so interesting — and we may suggest, so photogenic — they asked to do a documentary on her.
And the name “Juice”? An early nickname, because she was such a fat, juicy baby.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Spontaneous, eclectic, witty.
What are you afraid of?
Divorce.
Are you a lover or a fighter?
I love a good argument.
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
Meerkat Manor. That’s pretty much the only one I watch. I’d feed them and save them from the animals that are trying to kill them.
Do you have any hidden talents?
A photographic memory and a good sense of direction.
What was the first job you ever had?
I was a hostess at Lone Star Steakhouse.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
A boat, water, and my dog Remy.
What are your deal-breakers?
Bad breath, no job, no drive, egotistical.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
Drama queen.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
Be confident. Humor is a plus. Don’t put your arm around me as soon as you meet me. I’m not your possession. … It’s kind of a pet peeve.
Chad Johnson, 37
Capricorn
Stylist
Single
As a stylist, Chad Johnson makes other people look good for a living. But the former model is no slouch himself.
Originally from Missouri, Johnson had an internship at Baptist — he was studying health and wellness — before he got signed with Ford Men. He could have moved, but he says Memphis turned out to be an easy place to fly in and out of. Thank you, Delta hub.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Unique, friendly, predictable.
Predictable?
I’m classic.
Craziest thing that’s ever happened?
My first fashion show as a professional model, I was walking the runway and I slipped and fell. My agent came up to me while I was still on the ground and said, “Are you okay?” I said yeah, and she said, “Get your ass up.”
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
I was picked for one. It was Big Brother 2, but I wasn’t controversial enough.
Favorite pickup line?
What I get more than anything is, “You look like someone I know.” I must look like everybody.
What was the first job you ever had?
I was a farmhand. I drove tractors.
Do you play any instruments?
Saxophone.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
Chapstick, cell phone, and my dog Milla.
What are your deal-breakers?
I don’t really have one. I let people be themselves.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
Most fashionable. Most likely to succeed.
Favorite movie?
300.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
Don’t be intimidated.
Cora Pitt, 26
Scorpio
Tour Guide at Sun Studio/Musician
Single
Sun Studio tour guide Cora Pitt came to Memphis from Wisconsin five years ago, and the city is all the better for it. Pitt is friendly, fun-loving, and says she’s always been a tomboy. So what does she look for in a date? Someone who can laugh at everything.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Pretty effing awesome.
Are you a lover or a fighter?
Most times a lover, but if I have to fight, I will kick some ass.
Favorite pickup line?
After Obama got elected, my best friend came up to me and asked me if I wanted to make some presidents. He’s this hilarious black guy. If we’re not married by the time we’re 40, we’re getting married.
What’s your best feature?
My eyes. I got my daddy’s blue eyes.
What was the first job you ever had?
I worked for Marshall Field’s when I was 16 years old. I was a perfume girl.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
My Yamaha Motif, a Fender Telecaster, and I would bring a bottle of whiskey and pray to God it doesn’t ever run out.
Favorite sports team?
Memphis Tigers all the way.
What are your deal-breakers?
Heavy drugs, no, thanks. STDs. Non-deodorant-wearing people.
Would you rather call someone or text them?
Text, hands down. I hate talking on the phone. I would love to text my mom, but she doesn’t know how.
High heels or flats?
I wear boots. I will die in a pair of boots.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
Don’t be a douche bag.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
No. I was always the nerd, so during my study hall periods, I would actually go find a piano and practice. I was even mistaken for a teacher in the yearbook.
Favorite movie?
The Big Lebowski.
If you were arrested tomorrow, what do you think you’d be arrested for?
Don’t jinx me.
Dan Russo, 27
Aquarius
Booking Manager at Ardent
Single as hell
Dan Russo says he loves to laugh, and he has that effect on other people.
We didn’t realize when we tapped Russo and Pitt that they were roommates. What are the chances? But after hanging out with both of them, we imagine it’s a fun place to live. So fun, in fact, that we’d kind of like to go home with them.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Loyal, enthusiastic, affectionate.
Night owl or early bird?
I kind of have to be a bit of both. I’m here at the studio every morning by 9 a.m., but at the same time, my favorite thing to do is go out and see live music.
Do you play any instruments?
Several. I studied jazz guitar, I play some piano, bass, drums, and a little mandolin.
How do you feel about blind dates?
I’ve never been on one, and quite frankly, the prospect of one terrifies me. Seems like you’re asking for trouble.
Are you a lover or a fighter?
I am a lover. I’ve never been in a fight in my life. Never.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Not a lot people know this, but I can juggle a little bit. I was real dork back in middle school.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
My dog, my bicycle, and one of my many best friends.
What are your deal-breakers?
I’m pretty open-minded.
Would you rather call someone or text them?
I think there’s an appropriate situation for either, but I have unlimited texting and a limited number of minutes.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
I was voted most musical and most talkative but I was also robbed. I was also voted most likely to succeed, but you were only allowed to have two, so I got most talkative instead of most likely to succeed.
Randal Cooper, 39
Scorpio
English Teacher
Single
Randy Cooper is a mechanical engineer by training and an English teacher by profession, but it’s his sense of humor that sets him apart. Last year, he was included in Twitter Wit, a book of some of Twitter’s funniest messages.
He’s also done theater with Theatre Memphis, Playhouse on the Square, and Chatterbox Audio Theater.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
I have been called abrasive, intimidating, and stiff, but it you want something sexy, it’s thoughtful, versatile, and wicked.
Craziest thing you’ve ever done?
There’s no one crazy thing. I tend to get a wild hair and take off on the spur of the moment for a wild location when I can. A school teacher’s salary tends to prevent that, but last March I took off to Prague for the weekend.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I have a three-octave vocal range on a good day. I play the trumpet and piano. I can curl my tongue.
What are your deal-breakers?
A differing sense of humor, a massively hairy back.
Would you rather call someone or text them?
Text. I like to be able to edit my thoughts before they go out.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
I was the treasurer of the National Honor Society.
If you were arrested tomorrow, what do you think you’d be arrested for?
I’d love to say standing up for the underdog, but trying to smuggle produce through customs or something stupid.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
Have a good sense of humor. You’ll need it.
Jennifer Hendrix, 27
Leo
Medical Sales
In a relationship
We doubt Jennifer Hendrix has ever met a stranger. The animal lover was planning on going to veterinary school, but on a suggestion from her doctor, decided to go into medical sales instead.
“He said I had the personality for it,” she says. “I meet people all the time.”
We can definitely see why.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Fun-loving, good friend.
How do you feel about blind dates?
I’ve been on a couple. They’re not so bad. I think they’re adventurous.
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
The Bachelorette. I would be on that show in a heartbeat.
Favorite pickup line?
My favorite is: Where do I know you from? It’s obvious you don’t know me, but you’re trying to start a conversation.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I’ve been playing the violin since I was 5. I play weddings and stuff like that.
What was the first job you ever had?
I worked at Little Caesars. I was 14.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
Gerard Butler, some sunscreen, and lip gloss — I’d hate to have chapped lips.
Did you get voted anything in high school?
Best dressed.
Favorite movie?
Legends of the Fall. Whenever it comes on TV, I have to stop and watch the entire thing.
If you were arrested tomorrow, what do you think you’d be arrested for?
Hurting someone who abused an animal.
Any advice for someone wanting to date you?
I’m looking for someone who is smart and career-oriented but can have a good time.
Lindsey Smith, 20
Taurus
Server, Clarinet Teacher, Student
Seeing someone
Lindsey Smith works at the popular Café Eclectic, and we won’t say that’s the only reason why it’s so popular, but her presence certainly can’t hurt.
A clarinet player for the University of Memphis’ symphony, Smith also gives lessons. Hot for teacher, anyone?
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Silly, ambitious, outgoing.
How do you feel about Internet dating?
Absolutely not. Never again.
Care to elaborate?
No.
What are you afraid of?
Ants. When I was really little I had an art farm. It got knocked over and they all got out. I woke up, and they were all over my bed.
If you were going to be on a reality television show, which one would it be?
America’s Got Talent.
Favorite pickup line?
“Are you from Tennessee?” It’s so cheesy. You’ve got to have a lot of balls to say something like that.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I play banjo on the side.
What was the first job you ever had?
My parents had a restaurant when I was young. I wasn’t on the payroll, but I helped out a lot.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
Best friend, toothpaste, “How to Survive On a Desert Island for Dummies.”
What do you look for in a date?
Confidence, assertiveness, good breath, good humor.
Favorite movie?
American Psycho.
If you were arrested tomorrow, what do you think you’d be arrested for?
My headlight. It’s out right now.
Jason Freeman, 35
Sagittarius
Musician
In a relationship
Musician Jason Freeman plays in two bands: the Midtown Lowdowns and the Bluff City Backsliders. He also taught Samuel L. Jackson to play the slide guitar for Black Snake Moan.
But he isn’t just known for his musical talent. He tends to grow out his hair and, as one of his nominators said, “About every other year Jason cuts off his hair and you can actually see his beautiful face, and this is the year we get to enjoy the view.”
Indeed.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Transformative, spiritual, expansive.
Night owl or early bird?
Night owl. I was pretty much born to be a musician.
Craziest thing you’ve ever done?
This might be up there.
What are you afraid of?
Not being able to fulfill my potential.
What was the first job you ever had?
I used to play guitar in the street. I was a busker in Arkansas. It’s an easy way to learn how to play and see what things people respond to.
If you could bring three things to a desert island, what would they be?
Guitar, record player, my girlfriend.
Favorite movie?
It’s a Wonderful Life.
If you were arrested tomorrow, what do you think you’d be arrested for?
I’m a model citizen.
