Ian Somerhalder, Picture by: Johns PKI / Splash News

The Vampire Diaries cast is full of talented and hard-working stars, so when b-day occasions roll around we aim to make our happy birthday wishes to them as meaningful as possible! And on December 8th, we’re getting the party started for one of television’s most sizzling (reformed) bad boys — Ian Somehalder! Another year full of the sexy hat master’s adventures, new-found wisdom, and extraordinary accomplishments? Sounds fine by us!

Thus, in honor of Ian’s big day, we’ve compiled a list of ten top reasons why he rocks! Check them out below:

1. He’s passionate about saving animals and the environment, cleans beaches alongside cute little kids, participates in fun dog walk fundraisers, and serves as a U.N ambassador when he’s not filming TVD: http://ow.ly/7PdIA.
2. He is a connoisseur of woman and appreciates ladies of all ages and nationalities. Fellas, take notes, because, mesmerizing blue eyes aside, this TVD bad boy knows exactly how to make a gal weak in the knees: http://ow.ly/7Pdcw.
3. He gets along with everyone – from co-stars Nina Dobrev and Paul Wesley to teen sensations Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez: http://ow.ly/7PdpM.
4. He officiates weddings in his spare time. (Honestly, we don’t know how the bride didn’t say his name accidentally during her vows!) http://ow.ly/fVAhE
5. He’s all about the ladies! Ian respects female leaders and supports global issues concerning women: http://ow.ly/7Pdxo.
6. He has a very special bromance with Jordan Catalano aka Jared Leto! (FAN GIRL MODE.) http://ow.ly/fVzV9
7. He loves chocolate – dark, organic, sustainably-made chocolate that is! http://ow.ly/7PduU
8. He hangs out with the POTUS aka President Barack Obama. No big deal. http://ow.ly/fVzNE
9.  He’ll whip you up a delicious pizza pie if you’re ever hungry. http://ow.ly/fVzPP
10. He’s a selfless guy. Instead of wishing for an iPad or a cruise to the Bahamas, or even for the coveted role of Christian Grey, guess what Ian wished for? To make the world a better place for all beautiful creatures. http://ow.ly/fVA5l

We hope that Ian celebrates his special day to the fullest! Now it’s your turn – tell us the number one reason why Ian Somerhalder rocks and leave your happy birthday wishes to this smoldering Vampire Diaries star in the comments!