Ellen locked the title of queen of lesbian icons when she (and her TV character) came out of the closet in 1996. Still, she didn't want to define her career -- or her life -- by this single history-making act. Not one to rest on her laurels, she's kept busy with numerous guest appearances on television series, a long-awaited return to stand-up comedy, a cable special and a second (short-lived) sitcom.

Fans who have missed seeing her in the public eye can rejoice at the news of Ellen's latest project as host of her own daytime talk show. Which means we'll get to enjoy watching Ellen doing what she does best: being herself.