(FORTUNE Magazine) – Fox's American Idol was so successful that the other TV networks are trying to develop copycats. The Hype Index is not immune. This month, our American Idol Edition takes a look at some icons, past and present. --Jason Tanz

Al Dunlap: The former Sunbeam CEO has had a rough couple of years, but he was a true visionary. he was into questionable accounting before it was hip.

Hershey: Trustees are trying to sell the company, despite objections that it would destroy its namesake town. What's next, Disney peddling Disneyland to Anheuser-Busch?

Carmela Soprano: In the show's fourth season, the country's best-loved Mob wife becomes troubled by her husband's ill-gotten possessions. If only Linda Lay could relate.

Pete Sampras: Tennis fans thought his career had officially ended. Then he went and won the U.S. Open. There's hope for you yet, Dunlap! Al Dunlap: The former Sunbeam CEO has had a rough couple of years, but he truly was a visionary. He was into questionable accounting before it was hip.