Lady Gaga makes Time's 'most influential' list

Lady Gaga is renowned for her flamboyant stage act

Lady Gaga and Ricky Gervais are among the celebrities who "most affect our world", according to a list published by Time magazine.

The eccentric pop star was called "an inspiration to other artists" in an appraisal written by singer Cyndi Lauper in the US publication.

Gervais made the list after hosting the Golden Globe awards and the success of his animated comedy show on US TV.

Oscar winner Sandra Bullock and Simon Cowell were also featured.

Saviour of pop

The X Factor and Britain's Got Talent judge was praised for having made "an indelible impression on global pop culture".

Also making the final cut of 25 was Twilight star Robert Pattinson, musicians Prince and Sir Elton John, as well as talk show host Oprah Winfrey.

She has made the list every year since it was initiated seven years ago.

Taylor Swift has scored a string of hit records

Kathryn Bigelow, the first woman to win the best director Oscar, made the cut, alongside fellow director James Cameron who she beat at the Academy Awards.

Grammy Award-winning pop star Taylor Swift was also on the list and one of the youngest artists.

Fleetwood Mac star Stevie Nicks, writing in Time about the 20-year-old singer, said she was initially reluctant to perform with her at the Grammys due to their age difference.

"But her little face just lights up like a star, and I couldn't say no," she said.

"This girl writes the song that makes the whole world sing... It's women like her who are going to save the music business," added Nicks.

Time magazine's annual list of most influential people also had categories for leaders, heroes and thinkers.