Oprah Winfrey's Biography

It’s usually easier to define Oprah Winfrey’s career by what she hasn’t done. Equal parts talk show host, philanthropist, actress, media mogul, and all-around tastemaker, she has been an icon for millions of people since she first hit the nationally-syndicated airwaves in 1986.

Winfrey grew up in poverty in Mississippi, before moving to Milwaukee with her mother. She eventually wound up in Nashville, capping off what was, by any measure, a turbulent and traumatic childhood. Thanks to her hard work and charisma, though, she eventually found success as a local news anchor and kicked off her career in television.

In many ways, Winfrey’s show revolutionized daytime TV. Her openness, honesty, and vibrant personality have made The Oprah Winfrey Show one of the most iconic programs in broadcast history—so much so that it’s estimated her endorsement of Barack Obama in the 2008 Democratic Primaries delivered over a million votes.

When it comes to drinking, Oprah seems to enjoy herself a good Lemon Drop. Unlike the classic, though, her recipe is made with a bit of fresh mint to liven up the citrus flavors. We wouldn’t expect anything less from the queen of daytime, who always puts her own twist on everything she shares.