entertainment

Already a rock star in his native 
Australia, this pretty boy used a daytime soap to boost his U.S. profile and lay the groundwork for “Jessie’s Girl.”

 

Reba McEntire

“Reba,” 2001-07

Careerwise, her sitcom was more of a detour. The consistent country star has scored No. 1 tunes in four consecutive decades.

 

Dionne Warwick

“Solid Gold,” 1980-81, ’85-86

Clive Davis and TV boosted her comeback because “That’s What Friends Are For.”

 

Jennifer Lopez

“American Idol,” 2011-12

“Idol” reminded America that J-Lo is a music star, but she didn’t back it up with much beyond “Dance Again.”