Oprah Winfrey Sets the Record Straight, Denies Receiving Payment for Kamala Harris Rally

Media Mogul Clarifies Rumors, Emphasizing Her Commitment to the Campaign and Volunteer Support for Harris’ Presidential Bid
Oprah Winfrey has vehemently denied the rumors claiming she was paid $1 million for her involvement in Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign. The media mogul and philanthropist hosted the “Unite for America” rally in September, a star-studded town hall event that brought together prominent figures to show support for Harris’ bid for the presidency.

In a statement from Winfrey’s production company, Harpo Productions, she clarified that she had not received any personal payment for her role in the event. “At no point during the campaign was I paid a personal fee, nor did I receive a fee from Harpo,” the statement read, adding that Harris’ campaign covered the production costs of the rally, including the set design, lighting, and crew.

Winfrey further addressed the rumors on social media, taking to Instagram to set the record straight. “Usually, I am reluctant to respond to rumors in general, but these days I realize that if you don’t stop a lie, it just gets bigger,” she wrote. “I was not paid a dime. My time and energy was my way of supporting the campaign.”

The rally, which took place in Farmington Hills, Michigan, on September 19, 2024, was attended by approximately 400 spectators, with many others tuning in online. The event featured virtual appearances from A-list celebrities including Bryan Cranston, Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep, Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, and Jennifer Lopez. Winfrey praised Harris’ campaign, calling it a “unifying force” in politics, and encouraged voters to support the Vice President in her bid for the presidency.

In her statement, Winfrey also explained the logistical support provided by Harpo Productions for the event, highlighting that while she did not personally profit, the people who helped produce the event were paid for their work. “The people who worked on that production needed to be paid. And were. End of story,” Winfrey concluded.

Winfrey’s involvement in the rally was a heartfelt expression of support for Harris, with Winfrey emphasizing that it was her way of contributing to a cause she believed in, rather than a paid engagement. As Harris continues her campaign, Winfrey’s public commitment serves as a testament to her dedication to the future of American politics and the unifying message of Harris’ campaign.