Monday, Aug. 10, 2009
The Matthew McConaughey of Russia
Does Vladimir Putin work out? You bet your babushka he does, and he wants you to appreciate the results. Whether he's riding a stallion, catching some fish or hunting big game, the barrel-chested Prime Minister of Russia just can't seem to keep his shirt on. The former judo champion has been photographed topless on so many occasions that even venerated ABC newsman Charlie Gibson felt compelled to try to explain just what's going on here. The answer? In a country where alcoholism is rife and life spans are shrinking, a hale, hearty and often shirtless leader is an example to all Russians of the importance of clean living. The rest of us just wonder whether he waxes.