Anderson Cooper: #2 Silver Fox, #1 Anchor

Oh, Anderson Cooper. He's only the second foxiest silver fox on TV, behind Tim Gunn, but I don't think he would mind; he clearly has an interest in the sartorial, if his piece on dictator fashion is any indication. And Tim's no competition for the anchor's chair. Anderson can not only handle the serious subjects with knowledge and aplomb, but he's also got a sense of humor about himself, one of the best things an anchor can have. (Try to think of Dan Rather taking himself seriously. Would you have watched his election night coverage then?) There's Anderson chugging Pat Robertson's protein shake. Anderson attempting the Mentos and Diet Coke experiment while wearing his CNN-issued hurricane-coverage-strength poncho for protection. Or his crew, wearing party hats and having themselves a "Miss USA Got a Second Chance, w00t!" party. Like I said last week, I love it when the crew gets some love. Yet my favorite Anderson moment came about a year ago. He'd met a family in West Virginia while covering the Sago story, and had them on the show a couple weeks later to check in. During the interview, he mentioned that he'd been exchanging e-mails with the little girl. How many anchors would do that? Particularly if they've got two-hour shows to prep for every weeknight and they're constantly being sent around the world to cover the big stories? Why would he bother? Because he's the best, that's why.

The one problem I have with Anderson: when he reports from a war zone, he never wears a helmet. I'm only thinking about your safety, Anderson. Please, try not to die.