MOST POWERFUL GAYS NAMED

Out magazine has released its annual list of the 50 most powerful gays and lesbian in the US in 2010, which is topped by none other than lesbian talk show queen Ellen DeGeneres.

“Since DeGeneres replaced Paula Abdul as a judge on American Idol in February, millions upon millions of viewers are getting a double dose of the hugely popular talk show host and 12-time Emmy winner,” said Out, noting that her “reach is nearly unparalleled”.

“A passionate advocate for marriage equality, an avid opponent of “don’t ask, don’t tell,” and staunch defender of animal rights, DeGeneres’s enormous platform is many an American’s gain,” noted the American magazine.

Others in the top five include Washington’s highest-ranking gay politician Barney Frank at number two, CNN journalist Anderson Cooper (who has never publicly come out) in third place , radio and television host and political commentator Rachel Maddow at number four, and American Idol runner-up Adam Lambert in fifth place.

Other notable entries in the list include fashion designer turned film director Tom Ford (13), Precious director Lee Daniels (25), gossip blogger Perez Hilton (27), finance guru Suze Orman (27) and actress and director Jodie Foster (41).

According to Out, the 4th Annual Power 50 list reflects “America’s most influential gay men and women.” View the full list here.