technology to automate the process for closing loans. AGE: 37
Tyra Banks, BANKABLE PRODUCTIONS
Why she’s hot: Tyra Banks, the first African-American woman to grace the covers of GQ, Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit issue, and the Victoria’s Secret catalogue, has turned her beauty into a hot commodity. Through her film and television production company, Bankable Productions, she has created vehicles that are, well, bankable. Established in 2003, her company has developed the prime-time hit America’s Next Top Model. As the reality show’s creator, executive producer, and star, Banks has not only paved the way for aspiring models but she’s given the UPN network a fresh franchise. Recently, she launched the hit syndicated program The Tyra Banks Show. The talk show, designed for women ages 18 to 34, has averaged 1.7 million viewers since its debut in early October. Also, XM Satellite Radio picked up the show and will include its audio broadcast on Take 5, a new talk and lifestyle channel targeting women. Bankable Productions’ other projects in development: a sitcom, a one-hour drama, and a made-for-television movie. Supermodel, Producer AGE: 32
HALLE BERRY, Actress, Producer, Spokeswoman
Why she’s hot: With a focus on producing high-quality films, Halle Berry continues to be a powerhouse in Hollywood. She recently received two Emmy nominations, one for her role in the ABC movie Their Eyes Were Watching God, and another as an executive producer of HBO’s critically acclaimed movie Lackawanna Blues. The Academy Award winning actress and Revlon spokeswoman is also producing upcoming films Foxy Brown and Nappily Ever After. Next year, she will reprise her role as Storm in the third installment of the X-Men film franchise, which grossed more than $700 million at the box office worldwide. AGE: 39
SHAWN “JAY-Z” CARTER, DEF JAM RECORDINGS
Why he’s hot: As one of the biggest crossover artists of the rap industry, Jay-Z brings street credibility to Def Jam, which has reported revenues of $1 billion. As co-founder of Roc-A-Fella Records, Jay-Z grew the company into a multimillion dollar business with hitmakers like Kanye West and Young Gunz. From there, Roc-A-Fella spun off other ventures, including Roc-A-Wear apparel, Roc-A-Fella films, and the 40/40 nightclub. The mogul owns a stake in the NBA’s New Jersey Nets and was responsible for $100 million in sales for the fastest-selling sneaker in Reebok’s history. To commemorate his 10th anniversary in the music industry, Jay-Z designed a limited-edition timepiece with watchmaker Audemars Piguet worth upwards of $70,000. AGE: 36
Cory Booker, Mayoral Candidate Newark, NJ
Why he’s hot: Cory Booker made national headlines with his tough, but failed attempt to unseat four-term Newark, New Jersey, Mayor Sharpe James in 2002. Today with endorsements as far reaching as R&B artist Alicia Keys and O magazine exec Gayle King, Booker is running for mayor again in 2006—and pundits believe he has a good shot at taking City Hall. The city councilman continues to make news with his brand of grassroots politics, and stays close to his constituents by living in a tenement in one of the most impoverished communities.