Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King, two iconic figures in the world of media and activism, have finally addressed years of speculation about their close bond.
The rumour mill has been churning for years, with many assuming the two powerful women were more than just friends. However, in a recent podcast recording of *Moments That Make Us
with Melinda French Gates, Oprah set the record straight.
"For years, people used to say we were gay, and listen, we were up against that forever," confessed the media mogul. She, along with Gayle, who is currently single, addressed the persistent rumours head-on, highlighting the difficulty of navigating public perception of their close relationship.
Gayle, known for her role as a CBS broadcast journalist, revealed that she used to plead with Oprah to address the topic on her show, saying, "I used to say to Oprah: 'You've gotta do a show on this. 'Cause it's hard enough for me to get a date on Saturday night with people thinking weâre gay.â
"If we were gay, we'd tell you," Gayle asserted firmly. Both women believe that the rumours stemmed from society's unfamiliarity with the concept of deeply close, platonic friendships between women.
"One of the things I started to think was that maybe people aren't accustomed to seeing women with this kind of truth bond," Oprah reflected.
However, Melinda French Gates, the co-host of the podcast, believes that Oprah and Gayle's relationship serves as a positive model for the world. She sees their "deep, true" connection as something to aspire to and learn from.
"Gayle is happier for me, for any kind of success or victory or challenge I get through, than I am for myself," shared Oprah. "And I feel as happy as she does. I can't be happier than she can."
The duo's friendship spans almost five decades, dating back to 1976 when both women worked as young journalists at WJZ in Baltimore. Their enduring bond was showcased in 1986 when Gayle made her first appearance on Oprah's show, discussing celebrity friendships.
Throughout their successful careers, they've consistently spoken highly of each other, crediting one another with providing unwavering support and motivation.
In a 2006 issue of *O, The Oprah Magazine*, Oprah described their bond as "otherworldly," stating, "Whatever this friendship is, it's been a very fun ride â and we've taken it together."
While Gayle was married to William Bumpus from 1982 to 1993, having two children together, Oprah has been in a long-term relationship with Stedman Graham since 1986.
Oprah and Gayle's story is a testament to the power of genuine friendship, defying societal expectations and showcasing a truly unique and enduring bond.