the most respectable or most respectable

I want to know whom you respect the most.
I want to know who seems the most respectable to you.

Masanori TakaokaIn both cases, is "the" necessary?

No.

Masanori Takaokawant to know who you respect the most.

That's fine for most speakers of BrE,

Masanori Takaoka I want to know who you respect the most.

It's fine for AmE speech, too, but you'll get it marked wrong on an assigned essay.

Mister Micawberyou'll get it marked wrong on an assigned essay.

We Brits are more tolerant. It will not be marked down in FCE, CAE, CPE or IELTS.

But it will on one of Masanori's Japanese English tests.

Mister MicawberBut it will on one of Masanori's Japanese English tests.

I know nothing of these tests, but if they penalise something that (I estimate) 90+% of speakers of BrE say, and 80+% of speakers of BrE write, and that is not penalised in any British examinations that I know of, then they are out of touch with the realities of modern English.

Thank you for your comments.
I agree.
In Japan, this kind of problem happens a lot.

fivejedjon they are out of touch with the realities of modern English.

Oh, of course. But Masanori and I can give you a whole list of antiquated grammar and vocabulary points that are still favorite test items in Japan:

I know who you respect.
None of them are coming.
Everyone should bring their homework.
This shop

Ye gods and little fishes.