Lin Chi-ling, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?
- By Elizabeth Sy
- Taipei
- Last updated on
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According to a reliable source, Lin Chi-ling is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the model's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.
UPDATE 11/01/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)
Why not Chi-ling for Person of the Year?
The list of nominees for Time magazine’s Person of the Year is always an eclectic mix of world leaders, pop culture icons, buzzworthy names, and human rights activists. The unexpected inclusion of the 51-year-old model, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.
“What makes Chi-ling so important is the potential and influence she now has, rather than anything she has already done,” said a panelist who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that earlier this month, the model have already been named ‘Taiwanese Of The Year’ by some major Taiwanese newspapers and even ‘Taipei Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Taipei (Lin Chi-ling's hometown).
Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year
A representative for the model was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:
“Lin Chi-ling Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 10 Jan 2026
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveLin”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 10 Jan 2026
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Lin Chi-ling?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 10 Jan 2026
Could 2026 officially be the Year of Lin Chi-ling?
Still, TIME’s editors will make the final decision about who will grace the magazine’s cover as its 2026 Person of the Year.
Who do you think should be TIME’s Person of the Year for 2026?
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