Last year’s ranking: 6
She may have gotten knocked for crossing the picket line, as well as for the canine incident, but Ms. DeGeneres continues to deliver where it counts, in entertainment and audiences.

“Ellen has found the formula to be a funny, non-offensive observer on day-to-day life as she dances her way into the living rooms of mid-America,” said one voter.

“The Ellen DeGeneres Show” is tied with “Rachael Ray” in the talk-show category this season at a 2.0. Ms. DeGeneres also scored by bringing variety back to TV with “Really Big Show” on TBS late last year as well as hosting the Oscars in 2007. In addition, her talk show ranks with “The Tonight Show” as must stops for celebrity promo tours on the West Coast.

“LOVE her,” said one voter. “I think she doesn’t live up to her bank potential—she has more in her—but in a weird way, I love that she hasn’t over-exploited herself as a brand. It’s refreshing—she does a great talk show and she seems to be happy with that. No need for an Ellen magazine or Ellen perfume.”