Sarah vs. Ellen?

As in Palin vs. DeGeneres. Apparently, there has been talk in Hollywood circles - to what extent is unclear - that the VP nominee would be a strong candidate to host a talk show, with the possibilities ranging from an Oprah-style syndicated series to a Sean Hannity-type role in cable news or on radio. Don't laugh - I suspect she’ll want to move into that kind of arena because it offers much greater exposure than being governor or even senator of Alaska – exposure that could be mined if she chooses to run for president in 2012 or even 2016. From THR:

"Any television person who sees the numbers when she appears on anything would say Sarah Palin would be great," said veteran morning-show producer Steve Friedman, citing the double-digit ratings gains her appearances on "Saturday Night Live" and "CBS Evening News" generated. "The passion she has on each side, love and hate, makes television people say, 'Wow, imagine the viewership.' " Although none of the execs has -- at least as far as anyone is admitting -- made direct overtures to the Alaska governor, they are readying their battle plans if she decides to give up her day job.

[CUT]

One producer/packager said he has held internal staff meetings about how to best parlay Palin's appeal and skills, with a daytime talk show the likely vehicle. "I see her less as a variety-show host like Ellen (DeGeneres) and more of a single-topic host like Tyra (Banks), or maybe what Jenny Jones used to be," said Chris Coelen, CEO of RDF USA. However, one syndie veteran who wished to remain anonymous believes Palin would not make an ideal candidate for talk show host or even court show judge. "I would not put her on the air," the exec said. "I find her a little stiff, and her ability to read the room is not quite fully developed."

Palin still has two years in her term as governor. Of course, all this assumes that she and McCain lose.