Oprah Winfrey hosted the very last episode of
“The Oprah Winfrey Show”. The last show was the 4,561
st episode of her daytime show that has lasted for 25 years. Despite a quarter of a century’s worth of grand gifts, celebrity superstars and amazing makeovers, the last show was simple and humble. Oprah stated that the last show was about the host saying thank you to her fans and to pay tribute to over 25 years of support.
The last show, called the
Oprah Winfrey Finale, was taped before a studio audience on Tuesday afternoon and broadcast earlier yesterday. Winfrey wore a simple pink dress and the show showed favorite clips from 25 years on the air, as well as the life lessons that Winfrey had learned along the way. It was a stark contrast from the surprise special in previous episodes that had featured stars such as Beyonce, Madonna and Tom Hanks.
The 57-year old Winfrey was among the first pioneers for daytime television. She tackled hard subjects such as incest, rape, sexuality, and mental sickness. Her show also became one of the favorite forums for celebrities to promote their projects as well as air out their personal problems and public scandals. Winfrey also created the Oprah Book Club in 2004, encouraging reading in America. The show was also known for lavish giveaways. In one memorable show, Winfrey gave each of her 276 audience members a brand new car.
Over the years, Winfrey and her HARPO company became one of the biggest names in the industry. Her work with her day time show paved unprecedented success. She was ranked the richest African American in the 20
th century, and was for a time the only African American billionaire. According to some publications, she is also considered to be the most influential woman in the world. Her current net worth is over $2.7 billion.