The Tribal Mind: Looks aren't everything, but they're way ahead of whatever's in second place

Wednesday May 9, 2007 04:08 PM

Who We Are

To discuss the urban myths and scandals of Sydney, go to Who We Are

by David Dale

Although this column's subject matter is popular culture, that doesn't mean it is shallow. When we declare that today's topic is the best-looking people on television, you will understand that our purpose is deep and serious. Physical appearance matters in the media (except on blogs, mercifully). Jobs can be lost with a single wrinkle and saved with a single act of surgery.

In Hollywood they have a term for what they consider the essential quality in a performer or presenter. A forum in the intellectual magazine Salon discussed this recently: "One of the prime qualities a leading movie star must have is f---ability ... Do you honestly think that it's talent alone that puts them into 'leading' category, as opposed to 'character actor'. Falling in love with the hero or heroine of the movie is often what it's all about. If that doesn't happen for you, then the movie won't work for you."

Apparently f---ability is a combination of good looks and that elusive quality called Presence. Salon suggested that the reason Ellen Page did not win the Best Actress Oscar this year for Juno might have been that she lacked f---ability (despite playing a girl who was pregnant throughout the film, which is only ironic if you take the term too literally).

The term has entered the vocabulary of our own industry. The news director of Channel Nine, John Westacott, is alleged to have told his staff last year: "To make it in this industry, you gotta have f---ability".

This column eschews linguistic crudeness as energetically at it eschews intellectual shallowness, so we are going to use a D word instead of an F word, and try to test the Westacott Theory by developing a "Desirability Index" for Australian television.

Exactly two years ago, with the help of readers, we came up with a shortlist of TV's best-looking people that included Jennifer Hawkins, Erika Heynatz, Deborah Hutton, Evangeline Lilley, Eva Longoria, Juanita Phillips, Naomi Robson, Sandra Sully, Jana Wendt, and Tom Williams. Sadly, some of those people are no longer on television or no longer so attractive.

So we need your advice on an update we are compiling with the help of a panel of persons of all sexual orientations. Consider this a work in progress ...

The most desirable people on Australian television, 2008:
Local Division
Natalie Bassingthwaighte (So You Think You Can Dance Australia)
Chris Bath (Seven news)
Mark Ferguson (Nine news)
Liz Hayes (60 Minutes)
Jeremy Lindsay Taylor (Sea Patrol)
Daniel McPerson (City Homicide)
Brendan Moar (Lifestyle's Moar Gardening)
Matt Passmore (McLeod's Daughters)
Bridget Taylor (The Gruen Transfer)
Julia Zemiro (Rockwiz).
The obvious omission from this list is Sonia Kruger, who is only missing because Dancing with the Stars hasn't been on yet.
International division
David Boreanaz (Bones)
Patrick Dempsey (Grey's Anatomy)
Tina Fey (30 Rock)
Evangeline Lilly (Lost)
Eva Longoria (Desperate Housewives)
Jesse Spencer (House)
Kate Walsh (Private Practice)
Matthew Settle (Gossip Girl)
David Tennant (Doctor Who)
Olivia Wilde (House).

Tell us who we've missed and misjudged by going to Comments. We'll use your input to develop a final list of the most desirable people on television, and scientifically correlate that with the success of their shows, thereby testing the Westacott Theory on f---ability.

David Dale is the author of Who We Are -- A snapshot of Australia today (Allen and Unwin). To discuss Australian attitudes, go to http://blogs.sunherald.com.au/whoweare.

COMMENTS

Local
Natalie Bassingthwaighte
Jennifer Hawkins (The Great Outdoors)
Kristy Hinze (Project Runway Australia)
Saskia Burmeister (Sea Patrol)
Charli Delaney (Battle of the Choirs)
Rachael Coopes (McLeodï¿½s Daughters)
Jane Hall (Neighbours)
Myf Warhurst (Spicks and Specks)
Sophie Katinis (Stupid, Stupid Man)
Diana Glenn (Satisfaction, Canal Road)
Madeleine West (Satisfaction, Underbelly)
Erika Heynatz (It Takes Two)
Allison Cratchley (All Saints)
Marina Prior (It Takes Two)
and Zoe Ventoura who was in ï¿½Kickï¿½ last year and will be in ï¿½Packed to the Raftersï¿½ this year

International
Olivia Wilde (House)
Kate Walsh (Private Practice)
Becki Newton (Ugly Betty)
Tina Fey (30 Rock)
Vanessa Williams (Ugly Betty)

by J Bar on August 03, 2008 at 07:30 PM

How could you not include Hawko?

by Matt on August 03, 2008 at 09:05 PM

Hey, J Bar, you missed Colin Firth!!

Tribal Mind asks: What series is he in?

by Shoopie on August 03, 2008 at 09:32 PM

Ellen pompeo....shes gorgeous but no one pays attention because she isnt the stereotypical beauty...but ellen should definitly be on the list....

by mel on August 03, 2008 at 11:53 PM

International

Jennifer Morrison (House)

by Jake on August 04, 2008 at 07:48 AM

Shoopie,
You say I missed Colin Firth? I'll take better aim next time. :P
But seriously. He's not female or in a television series.

by J Bar on August 04, 2008 at 08:10 AM

Hey, J Bar, you missed Colin Firth!!

Tribal Mind asks: What series is he in?

An endless series of Channel Teen's Friday Night Movies is probably what Shoopie had in mind?

Oh and my nomination are Rupert Penry Jones and Tom Ward.

by Cat on August 04, 2008 at 09:18 AM

Saffron Burrows (Boston Legal)
Olivia Wilde (House)
Tina Fey (30 Rock)
Cheryl Hines (Curb Your Enthusiasm)
Sally Dominguez (New Inventors)
Bridget Taylor (The Gruen Transfer)

by The Punchbowl Punisher on August 04, 2008 at 09:45 AM

Andrew McCarthy was in Lipstick Jungle recently. Still as yummy as he was 20 years ago.
Ellen Pompeo should be on the fugly list. Beauty also comes from within, and the character she plays in TV also has a scowl on her face.
Colin Firth should be included for the basic fact that Ch Lather Rinse Repeat plays movies he's in (not that I'm complaining) on high rotation, so it's almost like he's a series regular.

by Bereft Skerrick on August 04, 2008 at 10:08 AM

International:
Jensen Ackles (Supernatural)
Jared Padalecki (Supernatural)

by tassie on August 04, 2008 at 10:09 AM

Sandra Sully reading me the late night news on Ten.........just the tonic before bedtime!

by bryan on August 04, 2008 at 10:43 AM

Mads Mikkelsen (Unit 1)
Ginnifer Goodwin (Big Love)
Both on SBS

by Gillian Appleton on August 04, 2008 at 11:33 AM

You are definitely missing John Barrowman from Torchwood and Dr Who. Absolutely smouldering!

Tribal Mind replies: Possibly, but he hasn't been on Australian TV this year. We're seeking a list for "so far in 2008". That's why we had to exclude Sonia Kruger.

by mandy67 on August 04, 2008 at 11:51 AM

Karen Tso

by joel on August 04, 2008 at 12:41 PM

The most attractive woman on tv? Janice Peterson the SBS Newsreader by a country mile.

by Mike Wilkes on August 04, 2008 at 12:44 PM

International: Cat Deely (SYTYCD USA), Lisa and Cathy Rogers (no relation) (Scrapheap Challenge ABC2)
Home: Natalie Barr, Julia Zemiro and anyone else cross-eyed Sabilla Budd, Brooke Satchwell etc.
...AND Hawko by miles...

by Rexx on August 04, 2008 at 12:47 PM

Shame on you for ignoring the two unreasonably good looking boys from Supernatural (Jensen Ackles - swoon - and Jared Padalecki).

Josh Holloway (Sawyer in 'Lost') also deserves a mention.

by Frances on August 04, 2008 at 01:18 PM

todd sampson from the gruen transfer - he was already in your paper as smart and sexy - he would be at the top of my list. he is also interesting

by sal on August 04, 2008 at 01:24 PM

Hey Punchbowl, glad someone ventured into the Boston Legal women. I'm putting forward Tara Summers the English Rose. Gotta agree with Cheryl Hines from Curb Your... To all those women putting fwd Jensen Ackles, yep..my 23 yo daughter has a 'MRS JENSEN ACKLES' key ring - and loves the guy. (PS: Bring back CURB to free to air TV).

by Rexx on August 04, 2008 at 01:30 PM

You need to add:
Felicity Davies (Weekend ABC News reader - Sydney)
Sarah Groen ? (Channel 7 Weather Girl - Sydney)

by ben on August 04, 2008 at 01:33 PM

Padma Lakshmi - the undisputed No.1 at the moment is Padma off Top Chef - unbelievable!!!

by nic on August 04, 2008 at 01:47 PM

F.. er, desireability? You'd have to include Samantha Armytage from Seven news. She has the biggest bedrom eyes on TV

by Hans Olo on August 04, 2008 at 02:07 PM

Daniel McPherson (City Homicide)
Aaron Pederson (City Homicide)
Wil Traval (All Saints)
Jack Campbell (All Saints) did he appear in an Underdaks airport security ad back in the 1980s/90s?
Kristian Schmidt (Sea Patrol)
Josh Lawson (The Librarians)
Brett Tucker (Neighbours)
Callan Mulvey (Underbelly)
Rodger Corser (Underbelly)
Damian Walshe-Howling (Underbelly)
Marcus Graham (Underbelly)
Alex Dimitriades (Underbelly)
Lachy Hulme (The Hollowmen)
Richard Roxburgh (East of Everything)
Mark Ferguson (Nine news)

Rupert Penry-Jones (Spooks)
David Tennant (Dr Who)
Jesse Spencer (House)
Rob Lowe (Brothers and Sisters)
Richard Armitage (Robin Hood)
John Barrowman (Torchwood)
Jonas Armstrong (Robin Hood)
Jensen Ackles (Supernatural)
Josh Duhamel (Las Vegas)
Justin Chambers (Grey's Anatomy)

by Alex on August 04, 2008 at 02:20 PM

Last time I checked Jesse Spencer was an Aussie. Therefore even though he's on an international show he should be in the local content not international.

by Nadine on August 04, 2008 at 03:12 PM

Bridget Taylor? Absolutely. And I thought I was the only one who noticed.

by Blue on August 04, 2008 at 03:24 PM

My top three:
Todd Sampson (The Gruen Transfer)
Chris Taylor (The Chaser)
Hamish Blake (Rove)

by kelly on August 04, 2008 at 03:30 PM

...
Janice Peterson (SBS news presenter)
Emma Hannigan (reporter on SBS news)
Chloe Sevigny and Gennifer Goodwin (Big Love)

by jeremiah on August 04, 2008 at 03:30 PM

What about all those gorgeous home-grown Aussies that you have forgotten:
Rozz Switzer
Dominic Purcell
Daniel Macpherson
Rachel Griffiths
Need I continue?

by R18 on August 04, 2008 at 03:37 PM

Local: Adam Hills (Spicks and Specks)
International: Rupert Penry Jones (Spooks)

by Kylie on August 04, 2008 at 03:40 PM

National:

Reuben Mourad - The Weather Channel
Jules Lund - Getaway
Shelly Croft - The Great Outdoors

by missy on August 04, 2008 at 03:48 PM

James Spader - Boston Legal

by meme on August 04, 2008 at 03:48 PM

No one's picked Shelley Craft. One of the most natural and attractive tv presenters around. Wasted on funniest home videos

by zoltan on August 04, 2008 at 03:52 PM

i agree with todd sampson (the gruen transfer) - he should on the list - he is also new which is a bonus

by adele on August 04, 2008 at 03:58 PM

How could you have missed Adam Hills?????? Hot!!!!!!!

by Ginger Meggs on August 04, 2008 at 04:06 PM

Local
Mark Westman (RSPCA)
Mark Ferguson
Julia Zemiro
Marieke Hardy (First Tuesday Book club)

International

Rupert Penry Jones (Spooks)
Hugh Lurie (House)
James Nesbitt (Murphy’s Law )
Michael C Hall (Dexter)

by Yvette on August 04, 2008 at 04:08 PM

Hugh Laurie

I'm a hetero guy and even I think he's sexy

by A.Cottage on August 04, 2008 at 04:10 PM

Eric Dane ( Greys Anatomy)
he so should be on the list.

and kate walsh should win the international on

by dgfan on August 04, 2008 at 04:10 PM

Substance over style people. And you wonder why shows like Sunday die in the arse. Because people are pre-occupied with watching tv shows that feature pretty people with nice shiney white teeth plugging god knows what (perhaps a nuclear powered teeth whitening waffle maker or something).
People, please stop deluding yourself because its quite sad to see that you exist to watch these wide eyed Gazelles.

by Nope on August 04, 2008 at 04:20 PM

Myf Warhurst
Adam Hills
Todd Sampson
I'd do any of them in a heartbeat.

by Mel on August 04, 2008 at 04:26 PM

Can't overlook Janice Petersen - SBS News - if only she'd stop wearing overdone necklaces

by focussed on August 04, 2008 at 04:31 PM

No, no, no to Natalie Bassingthwaighte - inarticulate, repetitive, at best bland and she's-not-offensive..-I-guess. She just doesn't have that elusive charisma that makes a great performer/presenter. Barely better than Jodhi Meares (and that's saying something)

by SY on August 04, 2008 at 04:39 PM

Natalie Bassingthwaighte?? She's an absolute turn off!! Imagine being in bed with someone who uses that much botox.. Absolutely no facial expression. Nothing on her face can move except for her jaw going up and down! She's in the botox addict category. Blech...

by Rhys on August 04, 2008 at 04:46 PM

natalie bassingthwaite? damn. was it a bogan-only poll?

if f__ability is so important for lead actresses - how did nicole kidman get thru?

by Brendan Yard on August 04, 2008 at 04:51 PM

Rupert Penry-Jones (Spooks)
Jensen Ackles (Supernatural)
Jeffrey Donovan (Burn Notice)

by dancinggirl on August 04, 2008 at 05:03 PM

Thanks Cat & Bereft - yes, I was referring to Colin's recurring role every Friday night on .10. And I totally agree with you Cat, re Rupert and Tom ....sigh
Locally - Adams Hills and Chris Taylor! Hamish Blake is so cute I just want to pinch his cheek...
J Bar - I will deal with you later when I can think of a comeback!

by Shoopie on August 04, 2008 at 05:04 PM

The female science reporter from 'Catalyst' on the ABC who if I am not mistaken is also a doctor...

by 4 on August 04, 2008 at 05:06 PM

Local

Myf Warhurst
Sybilla Budd
Karen Pang, Deborah Mailman, Justine Clarke (Play School)

O/S
Ellen Page (Well I think she's f___able)
Tina Fey
Claudine Beaumont (Of UK Telegraph's 'Gadget Inspectors' podcast)
Asha Gill (Lonely Planet Six Degrees)

Yes there are stunnas like Nicole, Gwyneth, Katherine Heigl etc, but they're all ice princesses. KH complained about how in 'Knocked Up' women were portrayed as 'shrews, as humorless and uptight' - ever thought you might have been well cast, Katherine?

P.S. where did the picture of Tina Fey go? And why do I have to stay up till 11.30 tonight to see 30 Rock?

by Geoff on August 04, 2008 at 05:14 PM

3rd vote for Todd Sampson (Gruen Transfer), my housemate spent the last episode with a bad taste in her mouth cos there wasn't enough todd! he's seriously all that drew her to the show!

by jodie on August 04, 2008 at 05:22 PM

I would argue the obvious omission is Jennifer Hawkins. Only two sleeps till Make Me a Supermodel,whatever that is,but if the question is f...ability..

by Steve on August 04, 2008 at 05:38 PM

Jemaine Clement, Flight of the Conchords

by Bronwyn on August 04, 2008 at 05:53 PM

Local:

Sandra Sully
Karen Tso
Samantha Armytage
Janie Seal
Natalie Gruzlewski
Shelley Craft
Bridget Taylor
Elise Mooney
Myf Warhurst
Jennifer Hawkins
Juanita Phillips
Deborah Knight
Dr Jonica Newby

by Mick on August 04, 2008 at 05:59 PM

Tom Williams - stupid but sexy (I still hold dear some photos from his stint on Dancing with the Stars!)

by JoJo on August 04, 2008 at 06:01 PM

International:
John Simm (Life on Mars)

by Rosemary on August 04, 2008 at 06:32 PM

Agree with Chris Bath... but I think you ought to put Leila McKinnon and Natalie Barr. Anyone with me ? :)

by TT on August 04, 2008 at 07:02 PM

Agree with Chris Bath - been a fan for years - how about channel 7 trifecta - Chris Bath, Sara Groen, Anna Corhen

by Brett on August 04, 2008 at 07:22 PM

How could I forget - Missy Higgins.
She's so f___able she makes me wish I was a lesbian, even though I'm a bloke.

Tribal Mind asks: What series has she been in this year?

by Geoffrey on August 04, 2008 at 07:33 PM

so glad at least someone mentioned damian walshe-howling.
you obviously haven't seen julia zemiro from side on, her nose is bigger than bill lawry's.

by fods on August 04, 2008 at 07:33 PM

I agree pretty much that you have to be at least somewhat interesting to be "in the spotlight" but I cannot for the life of me understand why Bert Newton is on TV. Do you reckon he has something on the upper echelons of TV management? I just don't get it!

by Paul on August 04, 2008 at 07:56 PM

I'm sorry but Natalie Bassingthwaite is ugly as hell. She tries too hard, dresses like lamb and doesn't cover her mutton chops and is so damn annoying it's not funny.
And the chick from rockwiz, who's probably nice, simply doesn't cut it. Pia Miranda, now there's a fox.

by op on August 04, 2008 at 07:58 PM

David Tennant is the only one who'd make my list.
The rest are incredibly ordinary and unappealing.
International additions: Rupert Penry Jones, Tom Ward, Jessica Oyelowo.
No locals at all.

by Citrine on August 04, 2008 at 08:18 PM

'Tribal Mind asks: What series has [Missy Higgins] been in this year?'
So give her a series: 'Missy and Friends'. I'd watch. Drooling.

by Geoffrey on August 04, 2008 at 09:29 PM

Natalie Bassingthwaite ... you have to be kidding!

by Julie J on August 04, 2008 at 09:54 PM

Alison Page - from the New Inventors - every time I see her my eyes are glued to the screen, mouth open; isnt that f...ability.

by Andrew on August 04, 2008 at 10:04 PM

International:

Definitely Jennifer Morrison (House) and Hugh Laurie (House).

by Kylie on August 04, 2008 at 10:25 PM

International:
Jennifer Morrison (House)

She's so pretty and she can definitely act, which is more than I can say for Olivia Wilde. She's pretty much all looks and no substance.

by Tammy on August 04, 2008 at 10:27 PM

If I am allowed to mention Perth?
Karina Carvalho .. ABC newsreader.
Absolute goddess. All the rest can go home now.

by Algenon on August 04, 2008 at 10:51 PM

Kate Walsh is by far the most gorgeous woman on TV today. Talent, f...ability, & a great sense of humor to boot.
For the guys, I'd second the vote for Rupert Penry-Jones. He's a Bond in waiting.

by Liam on August 05, 2008 at 03:45 AM

Jeremy Lindsay Taylor is amazing as Buffer. He's the main reason many of us watch Sea Patrol. I was so happy to see him featured more this year , and am certainly hoping to more of him next year. He should be on the main poster with Ian and Lisa, not some silly guest star who's only in a few episodes.

by bj on August 05, 2008 at 04:08 AM

Karen Tso.

by bobmar28 on August 05, 2008 at 05:37 AM

Local:
Sybilla Budd
Natalie Blair
Imogen Bailey
Erin McNaught
Fuzzy Agolley
Madeline West
Monique Wright (yum)
Jennifer Hawkins
Jackie O
Kathryn Robinson (Ten News)
NOT Shelley Craft!!!

International:
Nadine Velazquez (My Name is Earl)(OMG!)
Kelly Carlson (Nip/Tuck)
Evangeline Lilly
Becky Newton
Eva Longoria
Jennifer Carpenter (Dexter)
Ali Larter (Heroes)
Freema Agyeman (Dr Who)
Chloe Sevigny (Big Love)
Lucy Liu
Tricia Helfer (Battlestar Galactica)
Katee Sackhoff (Battlestar Galactica - actually most of the women on that show)

by barry dangerous on August 05, 2008 at 08:56 AM

todd sampson (gruen) is hot and has a huge fanbase

by vicky on August 05, 2008 at 10:02 AM

In no particular order: Jennifer Hawkins (TGO), Kristy Hinze (PR), Natalie Bassingthwaighte (SYTYCD), Kate Walsh (PP), Becki Newton (UB)

But I swing both ways so: Rupert Penry Jones (spooks), Daniel MacPherson (CH), Jesse Spencer (house), Callan Mulvey (underbelly), Brett Tucker (neighbours)

by james@brighton-le-sands on August 05, 2008 at 11:07 AM

It's a bit suss seeing three posts in a row bagging Natalie Bassingthwaighte, posted within 12 minutes. Why do some people have to be so nasty and spiteful? They or he/she didn't even bother to nominate anyone they considered worthy.
It's a shame that The Circuit screened last year because I would have suggested Tammy Clarkson too. She went on to win the Graham Kennedy Logie Award for Outstanding New Talent this year, so technically she was on television when she accepted it. So I will nominate Tammy Clarkson too.

by J Bar on August 05, 2008 at 11:30 AM

John Simm. Definitely. I'd also vote for Chris Eccleston but don't think he's been in any tele this year. They would be my top two TV fantasy men. Michael Shanks (Stargate) is also a hottie.

by genfie on August 05, 2008 at 12:27 PM

todd sampson (the gruen transfer) gets the thumbs up from me. the show is interesting for people in and out of the advertising industry. i wish the show was longer 30 mins is too short especially when the camera dosn't focus enough on my fav todd.

by jade on August 05, 2008 at 02:16 PM

todd sampson (the gruen transfer) is a total hottie. the show rocks and really gives a fresh look into advertising. i hope there will be second season so i can see more of todd mmmmmmmm.

by alexia on August 05, 2008 at 02:19 PM

Todd Sampson (The Gruen Transfer) I can't get enough of this show. It was sad when the season finished, I sure hope there will be more. Todd is smart, ethical and sexy.

by mary on August 05, 2008 at 02:22 PM

International
Defintely needs
Michael Weatherley (NCIS- ONLY ONE OF THE HIGHEST RATING SHOWS EVERY WEEK!!!) He is such a hottie!!
Christopher Meloni and Mariska Hargitay- Law and Order: SVU
Not only have both of them had many nominations and awards for emmys and golden globes, so has the show.
Not to mention they are the hottest people! They both just ooze sex! His body is OMG!! And i would turn gay for her!!

by Ashy on August 05, 2008 at 02:53 PM

Hi,
Jacinta tynan is the best news presenter on TV. Keep up the great work.
Thanks
Danie

by danie on August 05, 2008 at 03:04 PM

What about Jacinta Tynan! A babe!! 30,000 hits on youtube if you don't get Sky news.

Tribal Mind wonders: It's fascinating that we get two comments in support of Jacinta so close to each other. Tim, you should get to know Danie, the commenter immediately above you.

by Tim Harris on August 05, 2008 at 03:49 PM

I'm wondering whether this large Todd Sampson vote is coming from within his own ad agency. Either that or genfie, alexia & mary + sal, adele, vicky, jodie need to start their own support group.

by Bereft Skerrick on August 05, 2008 at 04:20 PM

International:
Jennifer Morrison (House)
Josh Duhamel (Las Vegas)
Jensen Ackles (Supernatural)
Hugh Laurie (House)
And for Aussies:
Jesse Spencer (House)
Daniel Goddard (Young and the Restless)
Jennifer Hawkins

by Tash on August 05, 2008 at 05:17 PM

Oh I agree, Jennifer Morrison from House for sure!! Daniel Goddard from the Young and the Restless. He's so hunky!

by Elaine on August 05, 2008 at 05:21 PM

For International list - add Wipeout's Jill Wagner. Ouch.. hot!

by Matt on August 05, 2008 at 07:58 PM

Also, for more International listings:
Tina Fey - 30 Rock
Sarah Chalke - Scrubs

by Matt on August 05, 2008 at 07:59 PM

What about Ben Damon - Seven News ?
Ed Kavilee - Good News Week and Thank God your here

by Jane on August 05, 2008 at 08:18 PM

Local:
Jack & Kate from SYTYCD
International:
Jack & Kate from Lost (couldn't resist)
Elizabeth Mitchell (Juliet) from Lost
Michael C. Hall, Julie Benz & Jennifer Carpenter from Dexter
John Hamm, January Jones & Christina Hendricks from Mad Men (screened on Foxtel and coming soon to SBS)
Jonathon Rhys Myers & Henry Cavill from The Tudors
Kristen Bell from Heroes
Mary-Louise Parker from Weeds
Kate Walsh & Patrick Dempsey from Grey's Anatomy
the cast of Gossip Girl
Lauren Graham from Gilmore Girls (I can't believe she hasn't been mentioned yet)

by craig on August 05, 2008 at 09:09 PM

Thanks craig for reminding me that *Jonathon Rhys Myers* qualifies because he was in The Tudors. Yes definitely. I also like *Rupert Penry-Jones* and *David Tennant*, *Ben Damon*. Even though many people despise A Current Affair and think he's a bit slimy because of his job, I think *Ben Fordham* definitely has that desirability factor.
As for women, I'm surprised nobody has mentioned *Jamie Pressley* from My Name Is Earl who is equally as sexy as *Nadine Velazquez*. I think *Jennifer Hawkins*, *Natalie Bassingthwaighte* and *Kate Walsh* have to be up there too.

by marina on August 06, 2008 at 08:24 AM

Sawyer from Lost.
The boys from Supernatural.
John Barrowman (Cpt Jack from Torchwood)
Jonathon Rhys Myers (the Tudors)
Most of the cast of Heroes are pretty damn sexy, except for the Japanese guys.

by em on August 06, 2008 at 08:38 AM

Hottest bod on tv - Ben Damon of channel 7 sport for sure!

by Rambis on August 06, 2008 at 09:01 AM

Spot on rambis - Ben Damon is the goods!

by TAR on August 06, 2008 at 10:23 AM

I have a thing for dark haired wome with blue/green eyes, so definitely Saskia Burmeister, Olivia Wilde, Jane Hall and Vanessa Williams (although she's getting on a bit now but my dad still likes her). Maybe if Natalie and Jennifer went brunette, I'd choose them too.

by W.W.W on August 06, 2008 at 11:28 AM

Brett Tucker from Neighbours. Jesse Spencer from House. Virginia Gay from All Saints. Becki Newton from Ugly Betty.

by carly72 on August 06, 2008 at 12:55 PM

If the Ch 9 news director is right, then why do more people watch Ian Ross over Mark Ferguson? But then again, I always watch Ch 7 news in the hope of seeing hottie Ben Damon doing the sport report but he's only there on weekends or when the regular sport guy is off.

by hottie from cronulla on August 06, 2008 at 03:16 PM

Jeremy Lindsay Taylor, as Buffer, is the main reason I watch Sea Patrol. Is it a coincidence that he received more air time this year and the ratings went up? I think not. He's gorgeous. Hopefully he'll rate higher billing next year, perhaps even make it onto an advertising poster instead of some guest star, and the ratings will go up even more. Can't wait!

by bj on August 07, 2008 at 04:14 AM

David Hoflin from Neighbours. The blonde guy with that smouldering sexy Swedish look. I don't know if he'll get any more votes because it seems not many people admit they watch Neighbours these days, but he needs to be considered by your voting panel.

by Anastasia on August 07, 2008 at 07:29 AM

I've been verballed! I'm not even entirely sure which one of the panel Todd Sampson is.

by genfie on August 07, 2008 at 08:46 AM

International

Henry Cavill (The Tudors)
James Scott (Days of our Lives)
Jeffrey Dean Morgan (Grey's Anatomy/Supernatural)
Julian McMahon (Nip/Tuck)
Dylan Walsh (Nip/Tuck)
Josh Holloway (Lost)

Katherine Heigl (Grey's Anatomy)
Kate Walsh (Private Practice)
January Jones (Mad Men)
Evangeline Lilly (Lost)
Yunjin Kim (Lost)
Mary-Louise Parker (Weeds)
Nadia Bjorlin (Days of our Lives)
Ali Larter (Heroes)
Heidi Klum (Project Runway)
Natalie Dormer (The Tudors)

by Harper on August 07, 2008 at 09:55 AM

Nobody seems to be voting for Liz Hayes. Don't get me wrong. I'm not voting for her either. But looking at the article, maybe it's time to replace the photo of the old boiler with a spring chicken? I suggest Sharyn Ghidella, Samantha Armytage or even Saskia Burmeister.

by Dinkum Dave on August 07, 2008 at 11:54 AM

Jensen Ackles - drooool
(background screaming - settle down kids I am NOT old enough to be his mother and I am NOT embarrassing).

by Suze on August 07, 2008 at 07:15 PM

Local:
Kristian Schmid (Sea Patrol)
Joelene Aderson (All Saints)
Jennifer Hawkins (Search for a Supermodel)
International: Katherine Heigl (Grey's Anatomy)
Eva Longoria (Desperate Housewives)
Ryan Seacrest (American Idol)

by Belle on August 07, 2008 at 09:09 PM

I agree that David Hoflin is a spunk but don't forget Dean Geyer who was obviously hired by Neighbours because of his spunk factor.

by carly72 on August 08, 2008 at 08:35 AM

I think Stefan Dennis from Neighbours should definetly be on the list as he is looking sexier now than he did when he first started in the show back in 1985!! So he gets my vote 110%.

by Maria Dalziel on August 08, 2008 at 10:13 AM

It's a shame that you didn't do a list for 2007 because we all know that Ja'mie King would have been the hottest person on TV last year. Since Summer Heights High wasn't on this year, then I have to vote for Lucy Griffiths, Marian from Robin Hood.
Don't forget 'Sorry Ranga' Day is 10th August.

by aria on August 08, 2008 at 10:35 AM

Guys:
Jesse Spencer (House)
Andy Lee (Rove)
Nathan Sapsford (Video Hits)
Daniel MacPherson (City Homicide)
Andrew Supanz (All Saints)
Girls:
Jennifer Hawkins (Make Me A Supermodel)
Fuzzy Agolley (Video Hits) her real name is Faustina Agolley
Natalie Bassingthwaighte (So You Think You Can Dance)
Jodi Gordon (Home & Away)
Hayden Panettiere (Heroes)

by Chiara Berti on August 08, 2008 at 02:57 PM

I agree Kristian Schmid is hot, I also like Jay Ryan from Sea Patrol, Josh Duhanel from Las Vegas and Dave Annable from Brothers and Sisters. I always go for the tall, dark and handsome ones.

by Jessica White on August 08, 2008 at 03:24 PM

Local: Daniel MacPherson and David Hoflin and Hamish Blake.
International: Jesse Spencer and Rob Lowe and Rupert Penry Jones.
Local: Jennifer Hawkins and Madeleine West and Saskia Burmeister.
International: Becki Newton and Jamie Pressley and Cat Deely.

by Cameron Li on August 08, 2008 at 10:41 PM

Kate Bell - Blue Water High
Kate Walsh - Private Practice
Wil Traval - All Saints
Milo Ventimiglia - Heroes

by ern on August 08, 2008 at 10:56 PM

Jennifer Morrison - House
Emily Deschanel - Bones
David Boreanaz - Bones
Daniel Goddard - Young and the Restless
James Scott - Days of Our Lives

by Jo on August 09, 2008 at 12:57 PM

I have to put in a word for Gregory Fitoussi and Caroline Proust (Spiral, SBS). And am I the only one who sees something in James May?

by cosi on August 09, 2008 at 02:05 PM

how hasn't Reuben Mourad from the weather channel made the list??? HOT HOT HOT!!!

by mackie on August 09, 2008 at 03:54 PM

Nobody has mentioned Wentworth Miller from Prison Break yet. He's so cute. And my mum thinks Rob Lowe from Brothers and Sisters is still hot.

by lil koukla on August 09, 2008 at 10:08 PM

Jennifer Morrison from House
Emily Deschanel from Bones

by Tash on August 10, 2008 at 11:47 AM

On the local front it's Will Travel from All Saints, Kristian Schmid from Sea Patrol and the newsreader spunk a hunk Mark Ferguson.

Internationally it's all about Matthew Fox from Lost, Rob Lowe (Brothers and Sisters)
and Mr Mcdreamy, Patrick Dempsey from Greys anatomy.

by Bree on August 10, 2008 at 12:04 PM

Marcia Cross from Despos and Natalie Bassingthwaite from Dance.

by bazza on August 10, 2008 at 09:31 PM

International:
Laurence Fox aka Det Sgt James Hathaway on Lewis and Richard Armitage as the leather clad Sir Guy on Robin Hood.
Also Rupert Penry-Jones from Spooks.

by bluestocking on August 11, 2008 at 06:14 AM

I'm surprised these local women aren't in anyone's list.
Local
Claire Hooper (GNW) Ten
Marieke Hardy & Jennifer Byrne (First Tuesday Book Club) ABC
Lisa Miller (ABC reporter)

International
Julie Benz (Dexter)
Miranda Raison (Spooks)

by dsurte66 on August 11, 2008 at 06:46 AM

Myf Warhurst!
Bridget Taylor.

Jen Morrison. She's a classic beauty.

Liv

by Olivier on August 11, 2008 at 08:24 AM

The nerds get to enjoy the best eye-candy - I'm talking about the casts of Lost and Battlestar Galactica. What would the odds be of that many gobsmackingly gorgeous women all being in the same planecrash? And it's clear that only hot chicks can pilot spaceships. Try any of:
BSG:
Tricia Helfer (Number 6)
Grace Park (Boomer)
Katee Sackhoff (Starbuck)
Lucy Lawless (Number 3)
Mary McDonnell (Laura Roslin)
Lost:
Evangeline Lilly (Kate)
Yunjin Kim (Sun)
Elizabeth Mitchell (Juliette)
Rebecca Mader (Charlotte)

I have it on good authority the blokes go ok too.

by Nerd on August 11, 2008 at 08:39 AM

For the more mature man - Juanita Phillips for me

by Neil on August 11, 2008 at 08:48 AM

David Tennant - hands down the most f....able man on the planet. No international list can be complete without Rupert Penry Jones and John Simm.
Catalyst presenter Dr Alice Roberts has a certain something.
Local f...abilty? f..ed if I know.

by Kylie on August 11, 2008 at 09:00 AM

Richard Armitage. Yes. From Robin Hood and teh recent final episodes of The Vicar of Dibley. Rupert Penry-Jones and David Tennant round out my top three. On the local front I say Wil Traval, David Hoflin and Ben Damon.
On the female front, I admire Michala Banas from McLeod's Daughters and Jennifer Morrison.

by Nadia Abs on August 11, 2008 at 10:08 AM

Jeffrey Donovan (Burn Notice)
David Tennant (Dr Who)

by Avid on August 11, 2008 at 11:32 AM

Richard Armitage (Robbin Hood) He could put his shoes beside my bed any night! sigh.
also
Rupert Penry-Jones (Spooks)
David Tennant (Dr. Who)
Tom Ward (Silent Wittness)

local:
Todd Sampson (Gruen Transfer)
Adam Hills (Spicks and Specks)
Chris Taylor (The Chaser)
I guess I am an ABC/BBC fan.

by Judith on August 11, 2008 at 11:55 AM

Local: Myf Warhurst (Spicks and Specks) By far.
Todd Sampson (The Gruen Transfer)

by Helsta on August 11, 2008 at 12:28 PM

You gotta include Sally Williams, the Brand Power gal. Such a sexy smile and hint of cleavage

by Big Al on August 11, 2008 at 12:39 PM

"International:
Jensen Ackles (Supernatural)
Jared Padalecki (Supernatural)
by tassie on August 04, 2008 at 10:09 AM " - Definitely. One of the silliest shows on TV but I watch it with the sound right down to see the boys... ;-)
Also, Todd Sampson from Gruen - smart and so cute!
Ellen Pompeo is a Butterface - great body but-her-face is terrible. (SJP is the world's most famous Butterface.)
Simon Baker - local talent!
John Foreman - f-able on sheer talent and awesomeness.

by ElleBeeTX on August 11, 2008 at 12:57 PM

Josh "you make me weak at the knees" Holloway.

by Stauun on August 11, 2008 at 01:13 PM

For local: Chris Bath of Seven News should definitely come first, well above Natalie Bassingthwaighte. No arguements or further debate needed.

She not only looks great, but has a genuinely adorable personality when presenting the news. There is no need to ridicule her the way Anna Coren is ridiculed for being the figurehead of Today Tonight, simply because Chris Bath doesn't suffer from tall poppy syndrome, (although, a lot of what Anna Coren suffers from is the inheritance of an undesired legacy from Naomi Robson, and is not due to any fault of her own). Chris Bath delivers everything with a casual professionalism - by which I mean to say she certainly takes her job seriously yet carries herself in in a good-natured, amicable way. She would be just the same talking to you if you bumped into her at the supermarket as she would be interviewing royalty, and would still maintain an air of efficiency and warmth.

She presents the hard facts with just as much charisma as she does with the latest weird and whacky invention out of Tokyo (should such items be presented on the news in the same night) and this is only to her credit.

Now, it's 5:57 pm. I'm off to watch Seven News.

by Simon on August 11, 2008 at 05:01 PM

International:
Jennifer Morrison (House) - she's absolutely beautiful, and although this is based on looks, she can definitely act. Not much I can say for Olivia Wilde though who's more wooden than anything.

Local:
Daniel Goddard (Young and the Restless)
Jesse Spencer (House)

by Taylor on August 11, 2008 at 07:07 PM

I'm a reality show tragic so natalie bassingthwaite, cat deely and jennifer hawkins get my vote.
Who would I turn gay for? rupert penry-jones.

by tristan on August 11, 2008 at 07:19 PM

Joanna Griggs from the Olympics and Better Homes & Gardens. Phwoar! The missus is partial to Tom Williams from the Olympics and The great Outdoors. Sweet!

by free man on August 11, 2008 at 07:27 PM

What about Catriona Rowntree

by Jacques Stahl on August 11, 2008 at 07:32 PM

Marcia Cross is a hot little ranga.

by vaughan on August 11, 2008 at 09:02 PM

Unorthodox taste, yeah, but here goes, in no particular order:
Australian
Todd Sampson (Gruen Transfer)
Aaron Pederson (City Homicide)
Chris Taylor (The Chaser)
Diana Glenn (Canal Road)
Waleed Aly (Salaam Cafe)
Cal Wilson (Thank God You're Here, etc etc)
Jonica Newby (ABC)

International
Jackie Chan (any number of movies + Visa card ads: kick-ass athlete, performer & humanitarian)
Michael C. Hall (Dexter)
Matthew Gray Gubler (Criminal Minds)
Mark Harmon (NCIS)
Shemar Moore (Criminal Minds)
Matthew Fox (Lost)
Josh Holloway (Lost)
Evangeline Lilly (Lost)
Chris Melonie (Law & Order SVU)

by jamie n. on August 11, 2008 at 10:43 PM

Nadine Velazquez and Jamie Pressley are the only reasons that I watch My Name Is Earl. Jane Hall plays a very spunky 'grandmother' on Neighbours.

by kooka on August 12, 2008 at 01:54 PM

When I'm not watching porn where f****ability is not really a question to ponder for too long otherwise you miss the finer points of the plot, I like to watch the TV news and 3 women come to mind:
Sara Groen on 7
Deborah Rice the occasional newsreader on ABC and
Janet Something who reads the late news on SBS and yes, Johanna Griggs on the Olympic commentary team.
All a wonderful blend of intelligence, wit and beauty...now, where did I get up to on that tape?

by BM on August 12, 2008 at 04:59 PM

I'd have to add Catriona Rowntree, Kim Watkins, Myf Warhurst and Natalie Barr to the list.

by grumpy on August 12, 2008 at 09:46 PM

I'm a glutten for punishment - I like men who are edgy sexy, even a little on the grumpy side. The less they give the more I want!
Prime example is Hugh Laurie from the international show HOUSE. Also Julian Macmahon from Nip Tuck. Australians Kristian Schmid from Sea Patrol and Marcus Graham from Underbelly have an alluring appeal too.

by Bianca on August 13, 2008 at 07:36 PM

Nominations for f---able people on TV:-
1. Anne Kruger - Landline
2. Janice Peterson- SBS News
3.Honourable mention still - Anne Sanders - Sven News

by Tony Quance on August 14, 2008 at 06:55 AM

Dean Geyer is a spunk.

by corey on August 14, 2008 at 08:24 AM

Jennifer Morrison - House
Hugh Laurie - House
Daniel Goddard - The Young and the Restless
Jennifer Hawkins

by Ky on August 14, 2008 at 09:19 PM

>>>Local
Wil Traval
Ben Damon
David Hoflin
Natalie Bassingthwaighte
Diana Glenn
Jennifer Hawkins

>>>International
Rupert Penry-Jones
Jesse Spencer
Wentworth Miller
Kate Walsh
Heidi Klum
Nadine Velazquez

by kyle bay on August 15, 2008 at 07:42 AM

Gillian Alexy and Rachael Coopes from McLeod's Daughters. They are 2 of the hottest young chicks on any Aussie tv show. And the brunette from Sea Patrol isn't bad, Kirsty Lee Allen, if you prefer brunettes.

by max on August 16, 2008 at 02:35 PM

Jennifer Morrison (House)
Hugh Laurie (House)
David Boreanaz (Bones)

by sass on August 17, 2008 at 09:43 PM

Todd Lasance Home & Away and David Hoflin from Neighbours are my favourite Aussie soapie spunks. Have a thing for the blonde boys. Lipstick Jungle wasn't a very good show but Robert Buckley who played Kirby is the hottest overseas hottie. Probably the best bod on telly in the world. Rupert Penry-Jones looks hot, even though I don't watch Spooks.

by Surfie chick on August 18, 2008 at 08:26 AM

love foxtel's Reuben Mourad. that boy is HOT with a voice that makes me go weak!!!

by michelle on August 18, 2008 at 10:02 PM

They certainly pick sexy people for Foxtel shows. Gavin Morris and Josh Holt from the weather channel are hot too. But over on Channel V, you have the young studs James Kerley and Danny Clayton.

by Polydorou on August 19, 2008 at 11:43 AM

Glad to see Allison Cratchley rate a mention, she is the epitome of a yummy mummy, and all natural

by sally murphy on August 21, 2008 at 02:01 PM

I could never understand why Dr McDreamy would have a crack at Grey when he had the delectable Addison played by the gorgeous Kate Walsh. Maybe there should also be a 'fugly' list here too. Nobody mentioned Taye Diggs from Private Practice. He's tops.

by Aphrodite - goddess of love, lust, beauty on August 22, 2008 at 12:10 PM

Rove McManus (Rove Live)
Craig Reucassel (The Chaser)
David Tennant (Doctor Who)
Tom Ward (Silent Witness)

by Cupidus on August 23, 2008 at 03:38 PM

Is it my eyes or does Kristy Hinze have an ugly nose. It's rather odd looking.

by Lola on August 25, 2008 at 08:27 PM

I second Janice Peterson. She is beautiful without trying.

by Darren on August 26, 2008 at 06:38 PM

I think most of the cast of Underbelly are pretty hot. Rodger Corser and Callen Mulvey especially. Callan's even better since the accident he had which caused him to have facial reconstruction. Now he's more rugged than pretty, and to me, that's damn sexy!

by Mel Kay on August 30, 2008 at 10:32 PM

Karen Pang is super cute.

by Pixpaz on October 28, 2008 at 01:14 PM

The Sun-Herald

Who We Are

The Tribal Mind: Looks aren't everything, but they're way ahead of whatever's in second place

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