Oprah changed what media could be — and how millions live their lives

This article is part of The Poynter 50, a series reflecting on 50 moments and people that shaped journalism over the past half-century — and continue to influence its future. As Poynter celebrates its 50th anniversary, we examine how the media landscape has evolved and what it means for the next era of news.

It’s nearly impossible to describe the “Queen of all Media” in one sentence. Oprah Winfrey is a multihyphenate: A daytime talk show host who changed the business. A producer. An author. A philanthropist. An actress with accolades. A billionaire. An avid gardener. A champion of books and education. A media powerhouse.

In 2014, a few years after ending the talk show that catapulted her to international renown, she was asked about the secret to her success. Her answer was quintessential Oprah.

“My life is fueled by my being, and the being fuels the doing. So I come from a centered place,” she said. “I come from a focused place. I come from compassion — it’s just my nature. I come from a willingness to understand and to be understood. And I come from wanting to connect.”