THR's 35 Most Powerful People in Media
When Morgan, 47, isn't chasing down the day’s top stories (the CNN host landed an interview with Kirk Cameron in March about the actor’s controversial documentary, which led to a media firestorm over gay rights), the former Daily Mirror editor creates headlines himself. Recently, Morgan engaged in a Twitter battle with Madonna, extending her ban from his CNN show (which averages about 700,000 viewers). “This could all be a part of a brilliant PR campaign to compel her to do the show,” says Morgan. “Then I might dramatically lift the ban. Imagine the ratings.”
PHOTOS: THR's 35 Most Powerful People in Media
Just 15 months ago, he slid into the time slot occupied by Larry King for 25 years; since then, Morgan has landed some of the year’s biggest interviews, including his favorite guest, Charlie Sheen. “Turning up with five minutes to spare, he gave me the most dangerous, brilliant, exciting hour of live television I’ve had all year,” recalls Morgan. “He looked at me and said: ‘Hey, Piers, stop panicking. Let’s rock and roll.’ ”
