Oprah Winfrey Reportedly Hospitalized Due To 'Some Kind Of Stomach Thing'
By Afouda Bamidele on June 11, 2024 at 2:16 PM EDT
Updated on June 11, 2024 at 2:36 PM EDT
Oprah Winfrey's health has faced a setback as reports emerge of the talk show titan being hospitalized due to a mysterious stomach ailment. The media mogul had earlier discussed her weight loss struggles and regrets about past involvement in weight-loss shows.
Her longtime friend Gayle King addressed Oprah Winfrey's health status during a CBS segment she missed.
Inside Oprah Winfrey's Unexpected Hospital Stay
During Tuesday's episode of "CBS Mornings," Gayle King shared some intimate details about Winfrey's health, shedding light on the media mogul's absence from the show.
King, along with other anchors, was hosting author David Wroblewski to discuss his new book, "Familiaris," which Oprah had selected as the latest addition to her book club.
The 69-year-old disclosed that Oprah had been battling a severe stomach bug that had landed her in the hospital.
King did not shy away from providing more insight into Winfrey's condition, describing it as "a serious thing." Per TMZ, the TV personality shared:
"She had some kind of stomach thing — stomach flu — stuff was coming out of both ends. I won't get too graphic. Needless to say, she ended up in the hospital, dehydration, had to get an IV, it was a very serious thing."
Gayle King Shares Updates On Oprah's Health Status Amidst Concerns
As concerns mounted over Oprah's health scare, her best friend provided reassurance during Tuesday's episode of "CBS Mornings."
King, who had earlier described the seriousness of the renowned TV personality's situation, helped to calm worried minds by sharing that her best friend was on the road to recovery.
On the flip side, King had other worries. While expressing concern over potentially rattling Oprah by sharing the health news publicly, King hoped she would not mind the information being out there.
Meanwhile, Wroblewski appeared unfazed by Oprah's absence as he enthusiastically promoted his new work on the morning program.
Oprah had previously endorsed "Familiaris" on social media, praising it as a captivating read in a solid caption.
Oprah Winfrey's Regrets About Diet Culture
Prior to her reported health crisis, Oprah had publicly acknowledged her role in encouraging diet culture via her vast and influential platform.
Per The Blast, the actress reflected on her involvement during an episode of "WeightWatchers" special. Oprah admitted:
"I have been a steadfast participant in this diet culture through my platforms, through the magazine, through the talk show for 25 years, through online."
She also acknowledged her significant contribution, stating, "I've been a major contributor to it. I cannot tell you how many weight-loss shows and makeovers I have done, and they have been a staple since I've been working in television."
Mixed Reactions To Oprah Winfrey's Apology
Following her statement concerning diet culture, some fans expressed solidarity while others remained skeptical of her sincerity.
An individual on X (formerly Twitter) emphasized the importance of promoting health at any weight: "I accept her apology. Sometimes people forget you can be healthy at literally any weight.
At the same time, this netizen accused Oprah of promoting weight loss drugs, writing, "She's saying that because she discovered Ozempic."
One skeptic pointed out the contradiction in her apology, stating, "Most of her talk show career was built on diet culture.If she were truly sorry, she'd just shut up about the topic altogether."
Oprah Winfrey Reflected On Her Choice Not To Have Children
Amid skepticism about her recent statements, Oprah remains an influential figure, with many curious about her personal life—particularly why she has no children.
In 2021, The Blast reported that Oprah addressed this curiosity, explaining her decision. She recounted how, after meeting Stedman Graham and getting engaged, she contemplated motherhood.
However, Oprah ultimately decided against having children. Reflecting on her time hosting her talk show, she "realized the depth and responsibility and sacrifice that is actually required to be a mother."
Oprah noted, "I realized, 'Whoa, I'm talking to a lot of messed-up people, and they are messed up because they had mothers and fathers who were not aware of how serious that job is.'"
She also expressed admiration for women who managed to balance motherhood with other responsibilities. In her words:
"I don't have the ability to compartmentalize the way I see other women do. It is why, throughout my years, I have had the highest regard for women who choose to be at home with their kids, because I don't know how you do that all day long. Nobody gives women the credit they deserve."