How Oprah's Screw Up Became the Catalyst For a Game-Changing TV Deal

Oprah Winfrey’s pivotal role in "The Color Purple" not only revolutionized her acting career but also positioned her as a monumental figure in television history. Released in 1985, this adaptation of Alice Walker's novel came while she hosted "AM Chicago."In 1986, Winfrey debuted her iconic daytime talk program, which ran for 25 seasons, quickly becoming the most-viewed and top-rated show during its era. On the inaugural episode of the podcast "NXT Chapter with T.D. Jakes," Winfrey reflected on the Oscar-nominated portrayal of Sophia, noting her decision to forgo her vacation to seize this opportunity.When renegotiating her contract, her lawyer offered sage advice: “Never allow yourself to miss important opportunities.” He encouraged her to consider self-ownership, to which she eagerly agreed. Over time, Winfrey secured an impressive 93% ownership of her show, granting her autonomy regarding work and vacation.As clips of her conversation went viral, fans praised her journey, while some skeptics questioned the narrative's completeness. By 2003, Winfrey had become the first Black female billionaire and established the Oprah Winfrey Network in 2011, with a net worth of around $3.2 billion. She emphasized that success hinges on collaborating with those who share your vision.