TheForbesTop 40[1][2][3]was an annual list of 40 highest-paidentertainerscompiled and published byForbesmagazine from 1987[4]until 1998. The following year, 1999, it was created theForbesCelebrity 100.The list was published every September, compiled by using the income of performers over two years to overcome the year-to-year of a performer's income.[5]
Forbesrepresentatives said that those individual are "more than entertainers, they are businesses", declaring: "Not only do they create wealth for the entertainment industry and their business sponsors, they create wealth for the nation in exportable merchandize in the form of TV programming, motion pictures, and videocassette and music recordings".[6]
Steven SpielbergandOprah Winfrey,perennial individuals in the Top 10, have the most appearances with 12 and 10 respectively. Spielberg topped the list three times and Winfrey two (the first ever woman to do so inForbes).
The Rolling Stonewere the music band with most appearances (7), as well the most for non-American entertainers.The Beatlesattained the highest ranks for non-Americans.
Forbes20th-century lists were predominantly dominated by male figures. In 1996 alone, only four female celebrities made appearances at the list (Oprah Winfreyranked 1,Roseanne Barrat 25,Mariah Careyat 33, andSandra Bullockat 40). Winfrey, however, often appeared even above many individuals regardless of gender, which has been maintained with the inception ofForbesCelebrity 100in 1999. Various musicians often dominated the list, although high ranks were not usually attained by female artists. Like Winfrey,Madonnawas an almost premier exception.[18]
On the other hand, lists were dominated by American personalities rather than foreigners.[19]The Beatlesattained the highest ranked for non-Americans.[19]According toForbes,after list' 11th anniversary,Steven SpielbergandBill Cosbywere the individuals with the most appearances at the top, with three each.[19]
Bill Cosby
Pink Floyd
Julio Iglesias
U2
Jim Carrey