LONDON: American reality TV star Caitlyn Jenner has been named most fascinating person of 2015 by Barbara Walters.

The 66-year-old I Am Cait star, who was known as Bruce Jenner before undergoing a gender transition, was handed the honour ahead of the likes of Amy Schumer, Bradley Cooper and Donna Karan, reported Female First.

“Our choice for the most fascinating person of the year was once called the world’s greatest athlete. Traditionally that title was given to the man who won the Olympic decathlon. When Bruce Jenner won it in 1976, it was a huge accomplishment that had everybody talking. But it was nothing like this. When Bruce Jenner became Caitlyn Jenner, there was a seismic shift in the gender universe,” said Walters.

“Her celebrity status has helped launch a national discussion about transgender rights. She has become a champion for the transgender community, raising awareness and advocating for acceptance. Through her own transformation, Caitlyn Jenner transformed society this year, and that, for us, makes her the most fascinating person of 2015.”

Previous winners include Princess Diana, Hillary Clinton and Amal Clooney.