History of Oprah Winfrey in Timeline
Oprah Winfrey is an influential American talk show host, television producer, actress, author, and media proprietor, widely recognized for The Oprah Winfrey Show, which aired for 25 years. Known as the "Queen of All Media," she was the wealthiest African-American of the 20th century and, at one point, the world's only black billionaire. She is consistently ranked among the most influential women globally.
April 15, 1900: Hattie Mae (Presley) Lee Born
On April 15, 1900, Hattie Mae (Presley) Lee, Oprah Winfrey's maternal grandmother, was born. She passed away on February 27, 1963.
1933: Vernon Winfrey Born
In 1933, Vernon Winfrey, Oprah Winfrey's father, was born. He passed away in 2022.
1935: Vernita Lee Born
In 1935, Vernita Lee, Oprah Winfrey's mother, was born. She passed away in 2018.
January 29, 1954: Oprah Winfrey Born
On January 29, 1954, Oprah Gail Winfrey, originally named Orpah Gail Winfrey, was born in Kosciusko, Mississippi. She is now known as an American talk show host, television producer, actress, author, and media proprietor.
1962: Move to Nashville
In 1962, Oprah Winfrey was temporarily sent to live with her father in Nashville, Tennessee, due to her mother's difficulty raising both daughters.
February 27, 1963: Death of Hattie Mae (Presley) Lee
On February 27, 1963, Hattie Mae (Presley) Lee, Oprah Winfrey's maternal grandmother, passed away.
1971: Meets William "Bubba" Taylor
In 1971, Oprah Winfrey met William "Bubba" Taylor at Tennessee State University, initiating what CBS journalist George Mair described as her "first intense, to-die-for love affair." This relationship marked a significant personal connection for Winfrey during that year.
June 1976: Moved to Baltimore
In June 1976, Winfrey moved to Baltimore to work at WJZ-TV. The move ended her relationship with William "Bubba" Taylor, who was unwilling to relocate from Nashville with her, marking a pivotal moment in her career and personal life.
1976: Moves to Baltimore's WJZ-TV
In 1976, Oprah Winfrey moved to Baltimore's WJZ-TV to co-anchor the six o'clock news.
1977: Lower Profile Positions
In 1977, Oprah Winfrey was removed as co-anchor and worked in lower profile positions at the station.
August 14, 1978: People Are Talking Premiere
On August 14, 1978, Oprah Winfrey co-hosted WJZ's local talk show People Are Talking.
September 8, 1981: Suicide Note
On September 8, 1981, Winfrey wrote a suicide note to her best friend, Gayle King, during a period of depression. She later reflected on the note, stating she realized she couldn't go through with it as she'd miss out on something good.
January 2, 1984: AM Chicago Debut
On January 2, 1984, Oprah Winfrey began hosting WLS-TV's AM Chicago.
1985: Co-starred in The Color Purple
In 1985, Oprah Winfrey co-starred in Steven Spielberg's "The Color Purple" as Sofia, a distraught housewife. She was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance.
1985: Purchased a condominium in Chicago
In 1985, Oprah Winfrey first purchased a condominium in Chicago's Water Tower Place.
1985: Involved in Drug-Related Love Affair
In 1985, Oprah Winfrey was allegedly involved in a drug-related love affair with Randolph Cook, who claimed they lived together for several months and did drugs. This period marked a controversial aspect of her personal life.
1985: Relationship with Reginald Chevalier
In 1985, before her talk show went national, Oprah Winfrey allegedly began a relationship with Haitian filmmaker Reginald Chevalier after he appeared on her show. The relationship ended when she met Stedman Graham.
September 8, 1986: The Oprah Winfrey Show Broadcast Nationwide
On September 8, 1986, the first episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show was broadcast nationwide.
1986: Announcement of Sexual Abuse
In 1986, Oprah Winfrey first announced on an episode of her TV show that she was molested by her cousin, uncle, and a family friend, starting when she was nine years old.
1986: Oprah's Quote on Father's Influence
In 1986, Oprah Winfrey said, "'When my father took me, it changed the course of my life. He saved me. He simply knew what he wanted and expected. He would take nothing less'".
1986: The Oprah Winfrey Show Begins
In 1986, The Oprah Winfrey Show started its national syndication broadcast from Chicago and ran for 25 years.
1986: Began Relationship with Stedman Graham
In 1986, Winfrey began her long-term relationship with Stedman Graham, marking a significant and enduring personal partnership in her life.
1987: Earned College Degree
In 1987, Oprah Winfrey earned her degree from Tennessee State University, a historically black institution, after submitting her final paper.
August 1988: Time Magazine Article
In August 1988, Time magazine published an article on the competition between Oprah Winfrey and Phil Donahue.
November 1988: Observed by Ms.
In November 1988, Ms. observed that Winfrey challenged societal norms by making "fat sexy, elegant," with her wardrobe, body language, and sensuality.
1988: Purchased property in Rolling Prairie, Indiana
In 1988, Oprah Winfrey purchased an 164-acre property in Rolling Prairie, Indiana as her weekend refuge.
1989: The Women of Brewster Place
In 1989, Oprah Winfrey produced and co-starred in the drama miniseries The Women of Brewster Place.
1989: Death of Half-Brother Jeffrey
In 1989, Oprah Winfrey's half-brother Jeffrey died of AIDS-related causes.
1989: NAACP Image Award Hall of Fame
In 1989, Winfrey was accepted into the NAACP Image Award Hall of Fame, recognizing her contributions and achievements in the field.
1990: Betrayal by Family Member
In 1990, Oprah Winfrey stated she felt betrayed by the family member who had sold the story of her son to the National Enquirer.
November 1992: Engagement to Stedman Graham
In November 1992, Winfrey became engaged to Stedman Graham, although the marriage ceremony never took place. This marked a key moment in their relationship.
1992: ABC Afterschool Specials
From 1992 to 1994, Oprah Winfrey moderated three ABC Afterschool Specials.
1993: Michael Jackson Talks ... to Oprah
In 1993, Oprah Winfrey hosted "Michael Jackson Talks ... to Oprah", a prime-time interview with Michael Jackson that became the fourth most-watched event in American television history and the most-watched interview ever, with 36.5 million viewers.
1993: Purchased condos below
In 1993, Oprah Winfrey purchased the condos directly below her original condo in Chicago.
1994: ABC Afterschool Specials
From 1992 to 1994, Oprah Winfrey moderated three ABC Afterschool Specials.
1994: Induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame
In 1994, Oprah Winfrey was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame and she finished the Marine Corps Marathon in less than four and a half hours.
1994: Shift in Talk-Show Content
Since 1994, Oprah Winfrey abandoned traditional talk-show fare for more edifying content.
April 16, 1996: Mad Cow Disease Controversy
On April 16, 1996, during a show about mad cow disease with Howard Lyman, Winfrey stated she was stopped cold from eating another burger, leading to a lawsuit from Texas cattlemen.
1996: Purchased condos in Fisher Island
Between 1996 and 2000 Oprah Winfrey purchased a total of five condos in different development areas of Fisher Island, Florida.
1996: Introduced Oprah's Book Club
Late in 1996, Winfrey introduced the Oprah's Book Club segment to her television show, creating "the Oprah Effect" by driving book sales and popularizing reading.
April 1997: Played Therapist on Ellen
In April 1997, Winfrey played the therapist in "The Puppy Episode" on the sitcom Ellen, in which the character (and real-life Ellen DeGeneres) came out as a lesbian, marking a significant cultural moment.
1997: Cook Attempted to Sue Winfrey
In 1997, Randolph Cook attempted to sue Winfrey for $20 million, alleging she blocked a tell-all book about their alleged relationship. This legal action highlighted a challenging period in her personal life.
1997: Appeared on Ellen
In 1997, Winfrey played a therapist on an episode of the sitcom Ellen where Ellen DeGeneres came out of the closet, leading to rumors about Winfrey's own sexuality.
October 1998: Produced and starred in Beloved
In October 1998, Oprah Winfrey produced and starred in the film "Beloved," based on Toni Morrison's novel. She prepared for her role by experiencing a 24-hour simulation of slavery. Despite advertising and reviews, the film had poor box-office results.
1998: Conversation with Gary Zukav
In 1998, Oprah Winfrey began an ongoing conversation with Gary Zukav, who appeared on her television show 35 times.
1998: Creation of Oprah's Angel Network
In 1998, Oprah Winfrey created Oprah's Angel Network, a charity supporting charitable projects and providing grants to nonprofits worldwide. Oprah's Angel Network raised more than $80 million.
1998: Favorite TV Personality
In 1998, Oprah Winfrey was named America's favorite television personality.
1998: Most Powerful Person in Entertainment
In 1998, Winfrey became the first woman and first African American to top Entertainment Weekly's list of the 101 most powerful people in the entertainment industry, marking a significant milestone.
1998: Hosted Maya Angelou's 70th Birthday
In 1998, Winfrey hosted a week-long Caribbean cruise for Maya Angelou and 150 guests to celebrate Angelou's 70th birthday, showcasing their close friendship.
1998: Trial in Amarillo, Texas
In early 1998, Winfrey and Lyman were sued by Texas cattlemen for "false defamation of perishable food." On February 26, after a two-month trial in Amarillo, Texas, a jury found them not liable for damages.
1998: 'Change Your Life TV' Begins
Since 1998, Oprah Winfrey began 'Change Your Life TV', with most significant role as a spiritual leader.
2000: Richest African American
By 2000, Winfrey's net worth reached $800 million, making her the richest African American of the 20th century.
2000: Purchased estate for Gayle King
In 2000, Oprah Winfrey purchased her friend Gayle King an estate in Greenwich, Connecticut.
2000: NAACP Spingarn Medal
In 2000, Oprah Winfrey was awarded the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP.
2000: Favorite TV Personality
In 2000, Oprah Winfrey was named America's favorite television personality.
2001: Chatman Found Liable
In 2001, Lavern Chatman, for whom Oprah Winfrey would later host a fundraiser in April 2014, was found liable for her role in a scheme to defraud nursing-home employees.
2001: Purchased estate in Montecito, California
In 2001, Oprah Winfrey sold all five of her Fisher Island condos and purchased an estate in Montecito, California, which would become her "main home base".
2001: Prayer for America Service
Twelve days after the September 11 attacks in 2001, New York mayor Rudy Giuliani asked Oprah Winfrey to host a Prayer for America service at Yankee Stadium.
2002: Oprah After the Show Program
From 2002 to 2006, Oprah After the Show program on Oxygen.
2002: "The Church of O" Article
In 2002, Christianity Today published an article called "The Church of O", which discussed Oprah Winfrey's influence as a spiritual leader.
2002: O, the Oprah Magazine called most successful start-up
In 2002, Fortune called O, the Oprah Magazine the most successful start-up ever in the industry.
2002: Invitation to Afghanistan
In 2002, George W. Bush invited Oprah Winfrey to join a US delegation planning to go to Afghanistan to celebrate the return of Afghan girls to school.
2002: Purchased homes for family members
In 2002, Oprah Winfrey purchased her father's home in Franklin, Tennessee and a lakefront condo in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
2002: Favorite TV Personality
In 2002, Oprah Winfrey was named America's favorite television personality.
2002: Bob Hope Humanitarian Award
In 2002, Winfrey received the first Bob Hope Humanitarian Award at the Emmy Awards for her services to television and film.
February 2003: Interrupted Broadcast
In February 2003, Oprah Winfrey's series showing clips from people asking America not to go to war was interrupted by network broadcasts of a press conference about the case for war.
February 2003: Death of Half-Sister Patricia
In February 2003, Oprah Winfrey's younger half-sister, Patricia, died of causes related to cocaine addiction at age 43.
November 2003: Gallup Poll on Winfrey's Popularity
A November 2003 Gallup poll estimated that 73% of American adults had a favorable view of Winfrey, indicating strong public approval.
2003: Listed compound in Rolling Prairie, Indiana
In 2003, Oprah Winfrey listed her compound in Rolling Prairie, Indiana.
2003: First Black Woman Billionaire
In 2003, Winfrey became the first black woman billionaire in the world, marking a historic achievement in business and wealth accumulation.
2004: Only Black Billionaire
From 2004 to 2006, Winfrey was listed as the world's only black billionaire by Forbes, highlighting her unique position and financial success.
2004: Publication of O At Home Magazine begins
From 2004 to 2008 Oprah Winfrey also published a magazine called O At Home.
2004: One of the Most Influential People
From 2004 to 2011, Winfrey was recognized by TIME as one of the most influential people, highlighting her significant impact on society.
2004: Ranked Among Most Generous Americans
In 2004, Oprah Winfrey became the first black person to rank among the 50 most generous Americans.
2004: Sold compound in Rolling Prairie, Indiana
In 2004, Oprah Winfrey sold her compound in Rolling Prairie, Indiana.
2004: Oprah's Christmas Kindness
In 2004, Winfrey filmed "Oprah's Christmas Kindness" in South Africa, bringing attention to children affected by poverty and AIDS. She distributed presents to 50,000 children, raising over $7 million for Oprah's Angel Network. Winfrey also invested $40 million to establish the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls.
December 1, 2005: Appearance on Late Show with David Letterman
On December 1, 2005, Oprah Winfrey appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman for the first time in 16 years to promote her Broadway musical, "The Color Purple." This event, which drew 13.45 million viewers, was hailed as a "television event of the decade."
2005: World's Most Powerful Celebrity
Forbes named Oprah Winfrey the world's most powerful celebrity in 2005, recognizing her extensive influence and reach.
2005: Acquired properties in Hawaii and Atlanta
From 2003 to 2005, Oprah Winfrey acquired properties totaling 163 acres in Kula and Hana, Hawaii, as well as a penthouse apartment in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2005, she also purchased a home in Douglasville, Georgia which was gifted in 2011 to a family member.
2005: Circulation decline of O, the Oprah Magazine
From 2005 to 2008, the circulation of O, the Oprah Magazine declined by more than 10 percent.
2005: Release of Their Eyes Were Watching God
In 2005, Harpo Productions released a film adaptation of Zora Neale Hurston's 1937 novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God." The made-for-television film was based upon a teleplay by Suzan-Lori Parks and starred Halle Berry.
2005: Reading with Oprah Published
In 2005, Kathleen Rooney's "Reading with Oprah: The Book Club that Changed America" highlighted Winfrey's use of media to promote reading and its social impact.
2005: Greatest Woman in American History
In 2005, Winfrey was named the greatest woman in American history as part of a public poll for The Greatest American, and ranked No. 9 overall on the list of greatest Americans.
2005: Announcement of weight-loss book
In 2005, at the announcement of a weight-loss book co-authored with her personal trainer Bob Greene, it was said that Oprah Winfrey's undisclosed advance fee had broken the record for the world's highest book advance fee.
February 9, 2006: XM Satellite Radio Contract
On February 9, 2006, Oprah Winfrey signed a three-year, $55-million contract with XM Satellite Radio to establish a new radio channel.
August 2006: Addressed Gay Rumors
In the August 2006 issue of O magazine, Winfrey addressed persistent rumors that she and Gayle King were gay, explaining that their close bond defies typical cultural definitions.
September 25, 2006: Oprah & Friends Broadcast Begins
On September 25, 2006, Oprah & Friends began broadcasting at 11:00 am ET, from a new studio at Winfrey's Chicago headquarters. The channel broadcasts 24 hours a day, seven days a week on XM Radio Channel 156.
2006: Only Black Billionaire
From 2004 to 2006, Winfrey was listed as the world's only black billionaire by Forbes, highlighting her unique position and financial success.
2006: Circulation decline of O, the Oprah Magazine
From 2005 to 2008, the circulation of O, the Oprah Magazine declined by more than 10 percent.
2006: Dowd on Winfrey's Credibility
In 2006, Maureen Dowd stated in an interview that Winfrey has more credibility than the president, highlighting her significant influence in the country.
2006: Criticism from Rappers
In 2006, Oprah Winfrey faced criticism from rappers Ludacris, 50 Cent, and Ice Cube, who perceived an anti-hip hop bias in her work. Ludacris claimed Winfrey edited his comments on her show and initially didn't invite him with the "Crash" cast. Winfrey responded that she opposes lyrics that "marginalize women," but appreciates artists like Kanye West.
2006: Purchased a co-op apartment in Chicago
In 2006, Oprah Winfrey purchased a co-op apartment along Lake Shore Drive in downtown Chicago, reportedly with plans to permanently move there from her prior adjoined-condo unit in Water Tower Place for the duration of her show; for reasons unknown, the property sat entirely unused until she sold it in 2012.
2006: Recalling Controversies
In 2006, Oprah Winfrey recalled controversies, including receiving hate mail for a show titled "Is War the Only Answer?"
2006: Oprah.com
In 2006, Oprah Winfrey sold her stake in the Oxygen network.
2006: Voiced Gussie in Charlotte's Web
In 2006, Oprah Winfrey voiced Gussie the goose in "Charlotte's Web".
2006: Highest Paid TV Entertainer
In 2006, Winfrey was the highest-paid television entertainer in the United States, earning an estimated $260 million, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the entertainment industry.
2006: Confrontation with James Frey
In 2006, after James Frey's "A Million Little Pieces" was found to contain fabrications, Winfrey confronted him on her show over the breach of trust, highlighting her commitment to honesty with her audience.
2006: Hawaii Vacation with Staff
In the summer of 2006, Oprah Winfrey celebrated two decades on national TV by taking her staff and their families, totaling 1,065 people, on vacation to Hawaii as a thank you for their hard work.
January 2007: Gallup Poll on Winfrey's Popularity
Another Gallup poll in January 2007 estimated Winfrey's favorable view among American adults at 74%, marking a consistent level of public approval.
January 2007: Opening of Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls
In January 2007, The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls opened in Henley on Klip, South Africa, with 150 pupils. Nelson Mandela praised Winfrey for her contribution.
September 8, 2007: Obama Fundraiser
On September 8, 2007, Oprah Winfrey held a fundraiser for Barack Obama at her Santa Barbara estate.
September 10, 2007: Appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show
On September 10, 2007, David Letterman made his first appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show, which was filmed in New York City for its season premiere.
October 2007: Gallup Poll on Winfrey's Popularity
In October 2007, a Gallup poll showed Winfrey's favorable view dropping to 66%, indicating a slight decrease in public approval compared to earlier polls.
December 9, 2007: Obama Rally in South Carolina
On December 9, 2007, Oprah Winfrey joined Barack Obama at a rally in Columbia, South Carolina, which drew a crowd of nearly 30,000 people.
December 2007: Fox News Poll on Winfrey's Popularity
A December 2007 Fox News poll put Winfrey's favorable view at 55%, indicating a lower public approval rating compared to Gallup polls.
December 2007: Rallies in Primary States
In December 2007, Oprah Winfrey joined Barack Obama for a series of rallies in the early primary states of Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina.
2007: Most Influential Woman
By 2007, Oprah was often ranked as the most influential woman in the world.
2007: World's Most Powerful Celebrity
Forbes named Oprah Winfrey the world's most powerful celebrity in 2007, recognizing her extensive influence and reach.
2007: Endorsement of The Secret
In 2007, Oprah Winfrey began to endorse the self-help program The Secret.
2007: Voiced Judge Bumbleton in Bee Movie
In 2007, Oprah Winfrey voiced Judge Bumbleton in "Bee Movie", co-starring with Jerry Seinfeld and Renée Zellweger.
2007: Popularity in Arab World
In 2007, The Wall Street Journal reported that MBC 4, an Arab satellite channel, centered its entire programming around reruns of Oprah Winfrey's show.
January 15, 2008: OWN Announcement
On January 15, 2008, Oprah Winfrey and Discovery Communications announced plans to change Discovery Health Channel into OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network.
September 2008: Criticism over Sarah Palin invitation
In September 2008, Oprah Winfrey was criticized after the Drudge Report claimed she refused to have Sarah Palin on her show due to Winfrey's support for Barack Obama. Winfrey denied the report, stating there was no discussion about Palin's appearance and that she decided to avoid using her show as a platform for political candidates after publicly supporting Obama.
2008: Yearly Income Increased
By 2008, Oprah Winfrey's yearly income increased to $275 million, marking continued financial success and influence in the entertainment industry.
2008: World's Most Powerful Celebrity
Forbes named Oprah Winfrey the world's most powerful celebrity in 2008, recognizing her extensive influence and reach.
2008: Publication of O At Home Magazine ends
From 2004 to 2008 Oprah Winfrey also published a magazine called O At Home.
2008: Endorsement of Eckhart Tolle's Book
In 2008, Oprah Winfrey endorsed Eckhart Tolle and his book, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose.
2008: Sold penthouse apartment in Atlanta and Gayle King's estate
In 2008, Oprah Winfrey sold her penthouse apartment in Atlanta and listed Gayle King's estate, purchasing a penthouse apartment in midtown Manhattan, New York City for Gayle King.
2008: PETA Person of the Year
In 2008, Oprah Winfrey was named Person of the Year by PETA for using her fame to help animals and uncover animal cruelty.
2008: Popularity
In 2008, Oprah Winfrey's show was airing in 140 countries internationally and seen by an estimated 46 million people in the US weekly.
2008: Show Airing Internationally
In 2008, Oprah Winfrey's show was airing in 140 countries internationally and seen by an estimated 46 million people in the US weekly.
2008: Political Force and OWN Formation
In 2008, Oprah emerged as a political force with her endorsement of Barack Obama and formed her own network, the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN).
2008: Broadcast in Arab World
In 2008, The New York Times reported that The Oprah Winfrey Show, with Arabic subtitles, was broadcast twice each weekday on MBC 4.
2008: Threw Angelou an 80th Birthday Celebration
In 2008, Winfrey threw Maya Angelou "an extravagant 80th birthday celebration" at Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, demonstrating her deep affection and respect for her mentor.
2008: Most Powerful Woman in Entertainment
In 2008, as chairman of Harpo Inc., Winfrey was named the most powerful woman in entertainment by The Hollywood Reporter, affirming her influence in the industry.
2008: Endorsement's Impact
In 2008, economists estimated that Winfrey's endorsement of Obama was worth over a million votes in the Democratic primary race.
2008: Exclusive Output Pact with HBO
In late 2008, Oprah Winfrey's company, Harpo Films, signed an exclusive output pact to develop and produce scripted series, documentaries, and movies exclusively for HBO.
January 2009: Best selling issue since 2006
In January 2009, O, the Oprah Magazine released its best selling issue since 2006.
November 18, 2009: Sarah Palin Appears on Oprah
On November 18, 2009, Sarah Palin appeared on Oprah's show after the election, fulfilling Winfrey's promise to have her as a guest once the election was over.
2009: OWN Delay
In 2009, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network's launch was delayed.
2009: Filming in Denmark
In 2009, Oprah Winfrey filmed a series of interviews in Denmark, highlighting its citizens as the happiest people in the world.
2009: Voiced Eudora in The Princess and the Frog
In 2009, Oprah Winfrey provided the voice for Eudora, Princess Tiana's mother, in Disney's "The Princess and the Frog".
2009: Criticism for Suzanne Somers Appearance
In 2009, Oprah Winfrey was criticized for having Suzanne Somers on her show to discuss hormone treatments not accepted by mainstream medicine. She also faced suggestions of not being tough enough on celebrity guests or politicians she liked. A media columnist criticized Oprah's lack of follow-up questions unless an author embarrassed her by fabricating a memoir she promoted.
2009: Favorite TV Personality
In 2009, Oprah Winfrey was named America's favorite television personality.
2009: Apology to James Frey
In 2009, Winfrey apologized to James Frey for the public confrontation, marking a moment of reflection and reconciliation.
May 2010: Closure of Oprah's Angel Network
In May 2010, as Oprah's show was ending, Oprah's Angel Network stopped accepting donations and was shut down, after having raised more than $80 million for charitable causes.
September 2010: Most Influential Figures 2010
In September 2010, Winfrey was voted 38th in the list of "The World's 50 Most Influential Figures 2010" by the British magazine New Statesman, highlighting her global impact.
2010: World's Most Powerful Celebrity
Forbes named Oprah Winfrey the world's most powerful celebrity in 2010, recognizing her extensive influence and reach.
2010: Criticism from Bill O'Reilly
In 2010, Bill O'Reilly of Fox News criticized Oprah Winfrey's shows about Denmark for promoting a left-wing society.
2010: One of the 100 People Who Changed the World
In 2010, Life magazine named Winfrey one of the 100 people who changed the world, recognizing her profound impact on society.
2010: Discovery of Second Half-Sister
In 2010, Oprah Winfrey learned that she had a second half-sister.
2010: Narrated Life for Discovery
In 2010, Oprah Winfrey narrated the US version of the BBC nature program "Life" for Discovery.
2010: Top 50 Most Generous Americans
In 2010, Oprah Winfrey was among the top 50 most generous Americans.
January 1, 2011: OWN Launch
On January 1, 2011, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network launched.
May 25, 2011: The Oprah Winfrey Show Finale
On May 25, 2011, the series finale of The Oprah Winfrey Show aired.
2011: One of the Most Influential People
From 2004 to 2011, Winfrey was recognized by TIME as one of the most influential people, highlighting her significant impact on society.
2011: Gifted home to family member
In 2011, Oprah Winfrey gifted a home in Douglasville, Georgia, which she purchased in 2005, to a family member.
2011: The Oprah Winfrey Show Ends
In 2011, The Oprah Winfrey Show ended its national syndication broadcast from Chicago after running for 25 years.
2012: Scholarships to Morehouse College
As of 2012, Winfrey had provided over 400 scholarships to Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to education and supporting students.
2012: Donations to Educational Causes
By 2012, Oprah Winfrey had given away about $400 million to educational causes.
2012: Sold co-op apartment in Chicago and Gayle King's apartment
In 2012, Oprah Winfrey sold her co-op apartment along Lake Shore Drive in downtown Chicago that she had purchased in 2006, and Gayle King's penthouse apartment in midtown Manhattan.
2013: World's Most Powerful Celebrity
Forbes named Oprah Winfrey the world's most powerful celebrity in 2013, recognizing her extensive influence and reach.
2013: Donation to Smithsonian and Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 2013, Oprah Winfrey donated $12 million to the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. Later in 2013, President Barack Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
2013: Starred in The Butler
In 2013, Oprah Winfrey starred in the film "The Butler" directed by Lee Daniels. Her performance garnered significant Oscar buzz, though she was not nominated for the award.
2013: Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 2013, Oprah Winfrey was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama.
April 2014: Fundraiser for Lavern Chatman
In April 2014, Oprah Winfrey spoke at a fundraiser for Lavern Chatman, a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, despite reports of Chatman's liability in a wage fraud scheme in 2001.
2014: Richest Self-Made Woman
As of 2014, Winfrey had a net worth exceeding $2.9 billion and overtook Meg Whitman as the richest self-made woman in America, underscoring her exceptional business acumen and success.
2014: One of the World's 100 Most Powerful Women
In 2014, Winfrey was listed as one of the world's 100 most powerful women by Forbes, ranking 14th, underscoring her continued influence.
2014: Listed Chicago Duplex and Purchased Property in Telluride
In early 2014, Oprah Winfrey listed her combined-unit Chicago duplex on the market. Later that year, Oprah came back to Telluride, Colorado to purchase a 60-acre lot with plans to build on the property. A lawsuit filed against her that year regarding trail access rights was dismissed.
2015: Purchased and Expanded Properties in Telluride and Montecito
In 2015, Oprah Winfrey purchased another property in Telluride, and expanded her Montecito compound with another 23-acre estate and a 44-acre crop and equestrian preserve. That year she also sold both of her downtown Chicago homes.
2015: Announcement of memoir
In 2015, Oprah Winfrey's memoir, "The Life You Want", was announced following her tour of the same name.
2016: SuperSoul 100 List
Following the launch of the Super Soul Sunday and SuperSoul Sessions programs on Harpo Productions' SuperSoul TV, in 2016 Winfrey selected 100 people for the SuperSoul 100 list.
2016: Endorsement of Hillary Clinton
In 2016, Oprah Winfrey endorsed Hillary Clinton in the election and referred to Donald Trump as a "demagogue".
2016: Postponement of memoir
In 2016, Oprah Winfrey's memoir "The Life You Want" was "indefinitely postponed".
January 2017: Joins 60 Minutes
In January 2017, Oprah Winfrey joined 60 Minutes as a special contributor.
September 2017: First 60 Minutes Appearance
In September 2017, Oprah Winfrey started as a special contributor on 60 Minutes.
2017: Reason for Not Wanting Children
In a 2017 interview with Vanity Fair, Winfrey explained that after losing her infant child at age 14, she did not want more children because she felt she wouldn't have been a good mother for babies.
2017: Scheduled publication date
Oprah Winfrey's memoir, "The Life You Want", was scheduled for publication in 2017, but was later postponed.
June 2018: Apple Partnership
In June 2018, Apple announced a multi-year content partnership with Oprah Winfrey.
2018: Political Activities in Georgia
In 2018, Oprah Winfrey canvassed door-to-door for Georgia gubernatorial Democratic nominee Stacey Abrams and donated $500,000 to the March for Our Lives student demonstration.
2018: Denial of Presidential Run
In 2018, Oprah Winfrey denied any plans to run for president, citing the nature of politics.
2018: Leaves 60 Minutes
In 2018, Oprah Winfrey left 60 Minutes. Also in 2018, The National Museum of African American History and Culture opened a special exhibit on Winfrey's cultural influence through television.
2018: Acquired Land on Orcas Island and Sold Home Property
In 2018, Oprah Winfrey obtained two adjoining parcels of land totaling 23 acres including the Madroneagle compound on Orcas Island, Washington and sold her last home property in the Chicago area from Elmwood Park.
2018: Starred in A Wrinkle in Time
In 2018, Oprah Winfrey starred as Mrs. Which in the film adaptation of Madeleine L'Engle's "A Wrinkle in Time". She also lent her voice to the animated virtual-reality short film "Crow: The Legend".
2018: Death of Vernita Lee
In 2018, Vernita Lee, Oprah Winfrey's mother, passed away.
2018: Meeting with Mohammad bin Salman
In early 2018, Oprah Winfrey met with Mohammad bin Salman, the crown prince and de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, when he visited the United States.
2019: Expanded Montecito Compound
In late 2019, Oprah Winfrey expanded her Montecito home-base compound to 70 contiguous acres, with the purchase of a four-acre complex from actor Jeff Bridges.
March 21, 2020: Oprah Talks COVID-19 Debuts
On March 21, 2020, Oprah Talks COVID-19 debuted on Apple TV+ during the COVID-19 pandemic.
July 2020: End of regular print publications announced
In July 2020, it was announced that O Magazine would end its regular print publications after the December 2020 issue.
July 30, 2020: The Oprah Conversation Debuts
On July 30, 2020, The Oprah Conversation debuted, with Oprah continuing to explore impactful and relevant topics.
December 2020: Final monthly print edition
In the December 2020 issue, Oprah Winfrey thanked readers and acknowledged it was the magazine's "final monthly print edition".
2020: Criticism for Promoting Junk Science
In 2020, Oprah Winfrey faced criticism for promoting particular guests whose medical commentaries (both on her show and in the wider media) frequently lack supporting science. There were calls for her to denounce Dr. Oz.
2020: Presidential Speculation and Endorsement
Leading up to the 2020 election, there was media speculation that Oprah Winfrey might run for president, but she ultimately denied any plans to do so and later campaigned for Joe Biden.
2021: Interview with Meghan and Harry
In 2021, Oprah Winfrey conducted an interview with Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and her husband Prince Harry. This interview was broadcast globally and received international media attention.
2021: Sold Orcas Island Compound and Purchased New Montecito Compound
In 2021, Oprah Winfrey sold her Orcas Island compound and purchased another compound in Montecito further away from her home-base compound.
2021: Elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences
In 2021, Oprah Winfrey was elected as a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
2022: Oprah Winfrey still resides at the Montecito estate as of 2022.
As of 2022, Oprah Winfrey still resides at her estate in Montecito, California, which she has called "The Promised Land".
2022: Real Estate Tycoon
As of 2022, Oprah Winfrey's real estate investments are estimated to total approximately $127 million, with many prominent industry outlets branding her a "tycoon".
2022: Endorsements in Senate and Gubernatorial Elections
In 2022, Oprah Winfrey endorsed John Fetterman in the Pennsylvania Senate election and Wes Moore in the Maryland gubernatorial election.
2022: Flipped Montecito Properties
In 2022, Oprah Winfrey flipped her newly acquired Montecito properties, selling one to her property manager and longtime personal trainer Bob Greene, and the other to actress Jennifer Aniston.
2022: OWN Your Vote Campaign
In 2022, Oprah Winfrey set up OWN Your Vote, a nonpartisan group focused on voter registration and providing Black women with resources to vote.
2022: Death of Vernon Winfrey
In 2022, Vernon Winfrey, Oprah Winfrey's father, passed away.
January 18, 2023: Speech at Moore's Inauguration
On January 18, 2023, Oprah Winfrey attended and spoke at Wes Moore's gubernatorial inauguration.
2023: Purchased Land in Maui
In 2023, Oprah Winfrey purchased 870 acres of land in Maui for $6.6 million.
2023: One of the World's 100 Most Powerful Women
In 2023, Winfrey was listed as one of the world's 100 most powerful women by Forbes, ranking 31st, underscoring her continued influence.
August 21, 2024: Endorsement of Kamala Harris
On August 21, 2024, Oprah Winfrey endorsed Kamala Harris in the 2024 United States presidential election at the 2024 Democratic National Convention.
2024: AI and the Future of Us: An Oprah Winfrey Special
In 2024, ABC aired “AI and the Future of Us: An Oprah Winfrey Special,” a one-hour show featuring interviews with tech leaders like OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Bill Gates, exploring AI's impact on daily life.
