Madonna 'most talked about artist'

Madonna has been the most talked about artist in the press in recent years, a study has revealed.

The singer, who is known for her ever-changing image and controversial messages in her music, has gathered more name-checks in the British press than any other artist in the last decade.

Kantar Media reports that the 52-year-old has been mentioned 46,017 times over the last decade, a considerably higher amount than Simon Cowell, who took second place with 28,563 mentions.

Researcher Brian Merron said: "This is why she's hailed as a legend."

The 'Celebration' star has been scrutinised in the press for the last decade over her marriage to and subsequent divorce from Guy Ritchie, her following relationship with Jesus Luz, adopting Malawian babies David and Mercy, and completing four global tours to promote her music.

Other celebrities to feature in the list are Robbie Williams, who took third place with 28,563 mentions, Britney Spears in fifth with 27,588, and Michael Jackson in eighth with 24,688 namechecks .

The 10 most talked about celebrities of the decade are listed below:

1. Madonna (46,017)
2.Simon Cowell (29,888)
3.Robbie Williams (28,563)
4. Kate Moss (28,056)
5. Britney Spears (27,588)
6. Victoria Beckham (25,833)
7. David Beckham (24,953)
8. Michael Jackson (24, 688)
9. Sir Paul McCartney (21,556)
10. Kylie Minogue (19, 694)