2013 – The year’s bankable stars
1. Hugh Jackman
For the second year in a row, Jackman topped the Encore Score, Encore’s ranking of Australian on-air personalities compiled from a survey of more than 3,000 members of the Australian public. Jackman’s charm, muscles and relatable demeanour continue to win him fans with one survey respondent noting that “although famous, he seems very humble and a dedicated family man”. His turn in blockbuster The Wolverine didn’t hurt his popularity either.
2. Rebecca Gibney
The star of Seven’s enduring drama Packed to the Rafters once again came in second on the Encore Score. The Australian public find Gibney “genuine”, “nice” and “good” and her motherly roles particularly endear her with one survey respondent saying “she feels like the mum you always wanted”. The Seven Network is clearly aware of Gibney’s power and have commissioned a series for 2014 to be produced by her production company with the likeable star in the lead role.
3. Olivia Newton-John
“An Australian treasure” – that’s how the public sum up Newton-John with her success overseas as well as her charity work winning their hearts. Also high on the list is the classic film Grease – a word which pops up reguarly when the public examine what makes them rate the actress.
3. Anh Do
Why do Australians like Do? The overwhelming response is that he is funny with a personal story that appeals to the public. One Encore Score respondent commented that he is “inspirational for all children and adults” with another noting that Do is “doing a lot to strengthen multicultural ties in this country”.
4. Magda Szubanski
Comedy actor Szubanski’s ability to rouse a laugh since the 1980s curries her favour with the public. Many point to her past roles from Babe and Kath and Kim as favourites. One Encore Score respondent sumed the sentiment up best: “Love her sense of humour and the fact that she definitely is a true blue Aussie sheila”.
5. Cate Blanchett
Blanchett’s public appeal is a combination of looks and talent with many Encore Score respondents saying that she’s “a great actress” while others see her as “beautiful”, “classy” and “sophisticated”. One respondent candidly commented “she is a great actress who doesn’t seem to be up her self”.
6. Hamish Blake
A “ratbag” with “boyish qualities” who is willing to “take the mick” is the Australian perception of Blake who wins points for merely being “funny”.
This post comes from the Encore & mUmBRELLA Annual available on iPad and iPhone.
Download it from encore.com.au
