Saying Farewell to Oprah After 25 Years
Coming to a Close
In the fall of 2011, Oprah Winfrey will be closing the curtain to her show after 25 years. Tim Bennett, president of Harpo Inc, released the statement saying, "[Oprah] has decided to end what is arguably one of the most popular, influential and enduring programs in television history. The sun will set on the "Oprah" show as its 25th season draws to a close on September 9, 2011."
At the Beginning
Oprah Winfrey was born to Vernon Winfrey, a coal miner and Vernita Lee, a housemaid on January 29, 1954 in Kosciusko, Mississippi. At 14 years old, Oprah ran away from home after experiencing abuse and rape at home and later gave birth to a baby boy, who died in infancy.
After buckling down and applying herself to her studies and work, Oprah landed a job at a local radio station and moved up to reading the news at only 19 years old. Her perserverance lead to her transfer to television, leading her to morning show host on AM Chicago . The first Oprah Winfrey Show was aired on September 8, 1986 on WLS-TV in Chicago. The show was originally a social-issue talk show, but transformed into a more spiritual and uplifting format, with her popular book club, self improvement segments and famous giveaways.
A Daytime Legend
A wide array of guests have taken a seat next to Oprah for nearly a quarter of a century. Some of Oprah's most famous celebrity interviews have included Julie Roberts, John Kennedy, Barbara Streisand, Johnny Depp, Jim Carrey, Robin Williams, Beryonce, Mariah Carey, and many more. Her ground breaking interview with Michael Jackson, post child-molestation charges, brought in 36.5 million viewers in 1993. And who can forget Tom Cruise's couch jumping stunts when announcing his relationship with Katie Holmes?
Oprah is known for much more than her celebrity interviews. She has the ability to connect to the average person from abused women, cancer survivors, or parents who have faced tragedy. One of Oprah's most popular segments "Oprah's Favourite Things" has been drawing viewers since it's lauch in 2004 with her famous "You get a car! You get a car!" giveaway to 300 audience members.
Many men and women alike connect to Oprah's down-to-earth approach to television, which has shot her into stardom in the world of daytime and talk shows.
The Aftershow
Oprah's media empire, including OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) and Harpo Studios will undoubtedly keep her occupied when the show comes to a close. No official annoucement has been made regarding Oprah's plans, but watch this spot. Whatever she sets her mind to, you know it will be fabulous.
