Sean Penn Has a Geraldo Complex

Many people have accused Fox reporter Geraldo Rivera of having a God complex, but now it appears that Sean Penn has a Geraldo complex. First we see Gunga Penn as the intrepid foreign reporter in Iran, and now he's decided to do daring rescues in New Orleans, just as his hero Geraldo is doing.

Unfortunately, his boating skills leave a bit to be desired. However, as always, Mr. Penn is good for some comic relief:

Movie star and political activist Penn, 45, was in the collapsing city to aid stranded victims of flooding sparked by Hurricane Katrina, but the small boat he was piloting to launch a rescue attempt sprang a leak.

The outspoken actor had planned to rescue children waylaid by the deadly waters, but apparently forgot to plug a hole in the bottom of the vessel, which began taking water within seconds of its launch. . . .

Asked what he had hoped to achieve in the waterlogged city, the actor replied: "Whatever I can do to help."

But with the boat loaded with members of the Oscar-winner's entourage, including his personal photographer, one bystander taunted: "How are you going to get any people in that thing?"

At least he looks like a star as he bails out his sinking boat.

What's next - hosting 20/20?