For nearly 50 years, Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King have been the epitome of best-friend goals. But let’s be real — it’s not just their decades-long friendship that’s been the topic of discussion; it’s the “they have to be more than just friends” whispers that come along with any deep, longstanding female friendship. From whispers of a secret affair to questions about Winfrey’s longterm partner Stedman Graham merely acting as cover-up of her and King’s torrid affair, the two have heard it all. And they’re finally addressing it head-on.
During an appearance on Melinda French Gates’ Moments That Make Us interview series on Wednesday, July 24, the dynamic duo discussed how some people think they are romantically involved. Winfrey, never one to shy away from the truth, addressed the decades-long speculation head-on. “You know, for years, people used to say we were gay, and listen,” she recalled. “[We] were up against that forever. And people still may think it.”
King, couldn’t help but chime in with her own frustrations over the rumors in her own cheeky way. “I used to say [Oprah], ‘You gotta do a show on this,’” she laughed. “Because it’s hard enough for me to get a date on Saturday night with people thinking we’re gay.”
So what’s the real secret behind their unshakeable friendship? According to Winfrey, it’s all about mutual celebration and support. “The reason why I think our friendship has worked is because Gayle is happier — not happy — for me in any kind of success or victory or challenge I get through than I am for myself,” she revealed.
Their story began in 1976 when two young journalists crossed paths at Baltimore’s WJZ station. Oprah was anchoring the 6 o’clock news, while Gayle was a production assistant. Despite different roles — and very different upbringings — they struck an instant bond. “We became friends that first night because for the first time, I met somebody who I felt was like me,” Gayle remembered fondly.
As their careers skyrocketed, so did their friendship. From epic road trips across America to surprise appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show, they’ve shown us what true friendship looks like.
Reflecting on their decades-long bond, King noted, “We bonded because we had very like philosophies. We were so in sync about so many different things, and I’d never met anybody like that.” Winfrey agreed, adding, “I think we’ve shared pretty much everything and I would have to say, it wasn’t even a matter of navigation.”
Ultimately, Winfrey believes the rumors persist because people aren’t accustomed to seeing such a healthy, genuine, platonic bond between women. “People aren’t used to seeing women with this kind of true bond,” she pointed out.
So, there you have it. No torrid affair, no secret cover-up — just two incredible women who found and continue to work for a once-in-a-lifetime friendship.
Before you go, click here to see LGBTQ celebrities who came out later in life.
