'The Nanny' Star Recast As Diplomat, Politico, and TV Talk Host?

Feb. 8, 2010— -- She's known worldwide for her nasal voice, New York accent, and starring role in the sitcom "The Nanny," but now actress Fran Drescher has recast herself as a high-profile foreign envoy, fierce political candidate and potential TV talk show host.

Drescher, 52, a cancer and rape survivor, told ABC News she considers herself a "visionary" who's trying to change attitudes about women, cancer, and health care around the world – and on Capitol Hill.

"I think women need to use their vote to change the way government, big business and the medical community – as well as themselves – think about their bodies, their health, the role they play in society, and the best medical practices," she said.

Drescher was recently tapped by the Obama administration to serve as a State Department Public Diplomacy Envoy for women's health – a post she first assumed in 2008 under President George W. Bush.

On her first official mission in September 2008, she toured Romania, Hungary, Kosovo and Poland. She recently visited Australia and is planning trips to Vienna, Austria, in April, and South Africa later this month.