Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey began life in Mississippi January 24, 1954. To date, she has defied all expectations, overcoming a rocky childhood that included various forms of abuse and residence in several states to become one of the world’s wealthiest and most influential individuals. It has been speculated that her difficult upbringing is partially responsible for her incomparable empathy for her guests and her commitment to improving talk show culture.

Oprah’s positive attitude and willingness to engage her guests with a level of involvement unseen amongst most other broadcasters aided her explosive rise to the top of talk radio, and subsequent television success. Beginning her broadcasting career as a youngster in 1971, it was at age 30 that her talent finally gained the recognition it deserved. She went from newcomer to leading the market first in Chicago radio—and the next year did the same in national television syndication with the debut of “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”

“The Oprah Winfrey Show” offers a unique format that features interviews with prominent entertainers and politicians such as Paul McCartney, Bill Clinton, and Tom Cruise—while just as frequently hosting discussions with non-public people ranging from safety experts to compulsive pet adopters. While many of her guests may be described as controversial or unusual, the show steers clear of Jerry Springer country in favor of a more positive approach.

Having beaten the odds and faced up to discrimination and innumerable personal setbacks, Oprah has increasingly focused on improving the lives of her audience. An avid reader, Oprah has stepped outside of typical television boundaries by starting a book club with the aim of promoting reading and discussion of books she finds fascinating and relevant. Her own O Magazine is a lifestyle publication that approaches healthy living from all angles—inspired in part by her lifelong struggle with weight.

A versatile talent and compassionate, socially interested person, Oprah has won critical praise for projects such as “The Color Purple,” works with numerous charities, and has promoted legislation aimed at preventing child abuse.