The year’s 10 worst media gaffes

If you missed the top cringe-worthy moments of 2010, you’re in luck. These beauties were all caught on tape.

This year’s winners include a politician threatening to kill a reporter, a movie star threatening to kill his ex-girlfriend, a prime minister killing his own political career, and a CEO trying to “top kill” an oil spill.

They were selected based on the impact of their gaffes.

Here, without further ado: the 10 worst media disasters of 2010:

10. Sarah Palin scribbles on her hand

If you’re a 9-year-old giving a speech to your fourth grade class, it might be adorable to write a few reminders on your hand. If you’re a former vice presidential nominee getting paid $100,000 for a high-profile speech, well, not so much.

In February, Ms. Palin reinforced the narrative about her lack of heft when she addressed the National Tea Party movement with these words written on her hand: “Energy,” “Tax Cuts,” and “Lift American Spirits.”

9. Christine O’Donnell disowns her Wiccan past