Thursday, Apr. 01, 2010

Susan Boyle

Age: 49
Occupation: Singer, reality-TV star
Previous TIME 100 Appearances: 0

Because Boyle did not exist, it was necessary to invent her, during an April 2009 episode of Britain's Got Talent. In an age desperately searching for authenticity, the reality-show-cum-talent-contest devised and judged by Simon Cowell showcased Boyle's soaring voice and earthbound style, launching a career that has found chart success on both sides of the Atlantic and name-checks on South Park and The Simpsons.