American talk show host Oprah Winfrey has been named the world's most powerful celebrity by US business magazine Forbes.

The 53-year-old eclipsed last year's winner Tom Cruise, who dropped seven spots to eighth.

Forbes ranks people according to their salaries, internet presence and press, TV and radio coverage.

Winfrey, who also topped Forbes' annual "Celebrity 100 Power List" in 2005, has earned an estimated $260m over the last 12 months.

"A combination of strong financials and her enduring influence on the US public, which could see her affecting the outcome of next year's US elections, is enough to propel her back into the top spot," said a Forbes spokeswoman.

Winfrey's business empire already includes a blockbuster daytime talk show, satellite radio show, magazine and Broadway musical.

She finished third last year.

Golfer Tiger Woods came second, followed by pop star Madonna in third and British rock group The Rolling Stones in fourth.

US actor Brad Pitt was ranked the fifth most powerful celebrity - moving up from 20th position last year.

Other stars in the top 20 include footballer David Beckham, rapper Jay-Z, film director Steven Spielberg, US talk show host Howard Stern and property tycoon Donald Trump.

However, Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton all failed to make the top 100 for 2007.

FORBES CELEBRITY TOP 10
1. Oprah Winfrey
2. Tiger Woods
3. Madonna
4. The Rolling Stones
5. Brad Pitt
6. Johnny Depp
7. Elton John
8. Tom Cruise
9. Jay-Z
10. Steven Spielberg

The article Oprah Winfrey tops star power list originally appeared on 999 Today