Who: Indian Filmmaker and Producer
Where: India
Why: Johar has been in the news almost throughout this year, for some reason or another. He’ s come under criticism for his sexual orientation, for his movies and for his choice of cast (remember, Fawad Khan?). But the director and producer has handled each and every comment and criticism with grace. He’s even made a comeback to the small screen with his hugely popular talk show, ‘Koffee With Karan’.
33. Tanmay Bhat
Who: Stand-Up Comedian
Where: India
Why: Tanmay Bhat is one of India’s prominent faces when it comes to stand-up comedy—giving it the credibility it deserves as a profession. But, that’s not why he came under the spotlight this year. It was more about his Snapchat fiasco that brought his to the fore on the internet this year; with people across the country being divided into two sides—pro Bhat and anti-Bhat. The issue also raised an important question as to how lighthearted and accepting we as a nation are to humour.
34. Ranveer Singh
Who: Bollywood Actor
Where: India
Why: If it wasn’t for his movie, it was for his underwear; if it wasn’t for his underwear, it was for his kinky comments. Whatever it was for, Ranveer Singh was easily one of the most talked about men in the country this year—from the girls gushing over his body to the boys wanting to be like him. Aside from the fact that he is (or isn’t he?) dating Deepika Padukone, his movies, his interviews, his Instagram and his ad campaigns all garnered him huge followings and news bytes that got him on the list of one of the most desired men in the country.
35. Rupert Murdoch
Who: Chairman and CEO, NewsCorp
Where: United States
Why: The media mogul returned to Fox News as the Chairman in July this year and married his fourth wife—who also happens to be Mick Jagger’s ex—Jerry Hall, in March this year. Clearly, someone got to say, “I’m back” in the best possible way this year.