Janet Street-Porter: my heroes and heroines Paul Thomas Anderson He made my two favourite films: Magnolia and Boogie Nights. His work is so heroic, taking on big ideas and difficult subjects. When I go to the cinema I want to be surprised and his films give intelligent insight into America. Tracey Emin She is a friend because she will always behave worse than me. She could not care less what people think; she's only interested in herself and that makes her art strong. She's made art relevant for people who would not otherwise be interested. Elton John I've known him since 1977 and he is a great friend. He's had a very long career because he is always open to new ideas. He also works with young artists and is not afraid to ring people up and encourage them. Ruth Rendell I am a devoted fan; I have every single one of her books. She is very enigmatic - she never gives anything away in interviews - which is a very strong thing in a woman. Patrick Heron I met the artist when I was 18 and now own some of his art, which I look at every day. He was an English abstract artist at a time when it was slightly unfashionable, but he stuck to what he wanted to do. He was funny and entertaining with a dazzling personality. Street-Porter is campaigning with Sure Maximum Protection for more statues of "strong" women. See surewomen.co.uk/maximumprotection Janet was talking to Rosanna Hutton