Some guys never seem far from the spotlight. So it is with Carl Icahn, 74, who has launched a hostile offer for Hollywood studio Lionsgate Entertainment. The New York Times takes the opportunity to profile him once again. Over the years, the press has grown more glowing, that's for sure. Attitudes have changed and moved his way, turning him from a reviled "raider" to a respected "activist investor."

In his mind, of course, he's been constant over four decades. He's certainly willing to make his case to the media. He's had good news to tout recently. Last year, his hedge fund, which remains highly concentrated, rose 32 percent after fees, according to a letter sent to investors. That's a reversal from a disastrous 2008, when the fund fell 36 percent, a figure that includes fees.

Still, he's got a nose for controversy. The Times notes his legal spate with a hedge fund run by Geoffrey Raynor, a former investment banker who worked for the Bass family. He's clashed famously with Donald Trump over three casinos bearing his name. He's also clashed with William Ackman over various profit sharing agreements. 

For more:
- here's the profile