Oprah Winfrey's Rise To Stardom

“Oprah Winfrey’s rise to stardom is an extraordinary story of personal achievement” (“Oprah Winfrey” Notable). Oprah Gail Winfrey was born in Mississippi to her parents, Vernita Lee and Vernon Winfrey, who were never married. When Vernon was deployed to complete his military duties Vernita moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin to look for work, leaving Oprah in the care of Vernon’s mother. Oprah’s grandmother lived her life according to the Bible, and raised Oprah to do the same. Oprah spent much of her early life at church which is where she realized her ability to read was exceptional (“Oprah Winfrey” Notable). The church was also the place where she showed a talent for public speaking (“Oprah Winfrey” Contemporary Authors). Eventually, Oprah became too much for her grandmother and had to go live with her mother in Milwaukee. Her mother did not spend enough time taking care of Oprah, and soon Oprah became rebellious and resentful for the lack of attention she received from her mother (“Oprah Winfrey” Notable). While living with her mother, Oprah was frequently sexually abused by male family members and family friends. This caused Oprah to become even more rebellious to the point of lying, stealing, and running away from home. Her mother tried to send her to a juvenile detention center, but she …show more content…
Winfrey’s television show, philanthropies, and successful book club and magazine have impacted millions of people’s lives, making Oprah the most influential woman in media. Oprah created a personal connection with her audience and viewers through “The Oprah Winfrey Show”. She helps better the lives of those who are less fortunate by making donations through her foundations. Oprah’s Book Club has taught millions of people to have a love for reading, and O, The Oprah Magazine has helped women be more self-aware. Oprah’s impact on the lives of people is greater than that of any other person’s in the