In the 16th edition of her ABC special "Barbara Walters Presents: The 10 Most Fascinating People of 2008," President-elect Barack Obama was named the most fascinating person of the year. Making history as the first African-American elected president, Obama was the obvious choice to top the list.
Taking the No. 2 spot was film star Tom Cruise, who opened up about his upcoming movie 'Valkyrie' and the buzz surrounding his big new role. Cruise also talked about wanting more children with wife Katie Holmes, adding that the couple is enjoying every moment with their daughter Suri, and Tom’s children Isabella and Connor.
Another familiar face from this year's presidential election made the list at No. 3 -- former GOP Vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin. Walters did not interview Palin for the special, but described the overwhelming fascination Americans had with Palin as a process of being built up and then torn down.
Actor Frank Langella came in at No. 4 on the list for his body of work, and especially for his upcoming role playing President Nixon in 'Nixon/Frost,' -- a role Walters says will likely earn him an Academy Award.
Thomas Beatie, the headline grabbing "Pregnant Man," was No. 5 on the list.
Rounding out the rest of the list were:
No. 6 - Rush Limbaugh, conservative radio broadcaster
No. 7 - Tina Fey (Fey grabbed headlines this year with her Sarah Palin impersonation on "Saturday Night Live.")
No. 8 - Miley Cyrus
No. 9 - Michael Phelps
No. 10 - Will Smith
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Comments (1)
about Palin...she really has disntinctive
characterists that would show any form of
grace.