WASHINGTON -- Time magazine has unveiled its shortlist for the 2024 Person of the Year, showcasing several global leaders, innovators and controversial figures who have shaped the past 12 months.
Last year's Person of the Year was Taylor Swift, who Time's profile declared had become "the main character of the world" in 2023.
The 2024 shortlist, revealed Monday on NBC's Today show, includes these ten individuals:
Powell is on the shortlist for the second year in a row. The 2023 shortlist also included Hollywood strikers, Xi Jinping, Sam Altman, Trump prosecutors, Barbie, Vladimir Putin and King Charles III.
Established in the 1920s, the TIME Person of the Year recognizes the individual, group or concept that has most significantly impacted the world over the previous 12 months. Contrary to popular belief, the title is not an outright honor but rather an acknowledgment of influence -- whether positive or negative.
The final decision rests with Time's editorial team. While the magazine invites public input through an online poll, the final choice remains a closely guarded secret within the newsroom. Very few individuals know who the Person of the Year will be before the public announcement, according to Time.
The announcement will be made Thursday, December 12, 2024, exclusively on NBC's TODAY show, continuing the magazine's long-standing partnership with the network.
Ahead of naming its person of the year, Time announced Tuesday that reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark is its Athlete of the Year for 2024.