The next Oprah?

Palin has thrived, says Janice Peck, author of “The Age of Oprah,” in a time when politics has been “de-politicized” — free from serious policy discussion. “It becomes all about image,” said Peck, “Palin epitomizes that.”…

“It’s a skill set that involves being authentic,” said Jim Paratore, who as president of Telepictures oversaw “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and “The Rosie O’Donnell Show,” — comfortable and compelling, day in and day out. And doing your homework…

In Palin’s case, Paratore says, “She’ll get sampled, but the question is, ‘What happens on week six or week 12?'”