Oprah Winfrey is the undisputed queen of daytime television, a media mogul, and philanthropist extraordinaire. She has captured the hearts of millions with her inspiring journey from a troubled childhood to becoming one of the most influential women in the world.
While her meteoric rise to fame might seem like a fairy tale, there is one man who played a pivotal role in shaping her destiny: Her father, Vernon Winfrey.
In this article, we will delve into the compelling reasons why.
The Man Behind the Legend
Before we dive into Oprah’s incredible life story, let’s get to know the man who played a significant role in her life – Vernon Winfrey. He was born in rural Mississippi in 1933, a time and place where racial segregation and economic hardship were rampant.
Oprah’s dad served in the U.S. Armed Forces, which allowed him to escape the suffocating grip of racial segregation in the South, even if only temporarily.
In 1954, Vernon moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he eventually found work as a barber. It was in Nashville that he met and married Vernita Lee, Oprah’s mother. Their union produced a daughter, Oprah Gail Winfrey, who would go on to change the world. However, their family life was far from idyllic.
Troubled Beginnings
Oprah’s early years were fraught with challenges. Her parents’ marriage ended in divorce when she was just a toddler and she was sent to live with her grandmother, Hattie Mae Lee, in rural Mississippi. This period of her life was marked by poverty and hardship. Oprah, affectionately known as “The Preacher Girl,” had a difficult time adjusting to life away from her parents.
It was during this time that Vernon Winfrey stepped in and changed the course of his daughter’s life forever. Vernon, who had remarried and had two children of his own, recognized the dire circumstances Oprah was facing. He made a bold decision that would prove to be the turning point in her life: He invited Oprah to come live with him in Nashville.
A Father’s Love
Oprah often speaks about the impact her father had on her life. She describes him as a strict but loving father figure who set high standards for her. Vernon provided her with structure, discipline, and guidance that had been lacking during her early years.
In an interview with Oprah, Vernon revealed that he would often have Oprah read books and write book reports. Even though he himself could not read, this simple act of encouraging education in his daughter would set the stage for her future as a media mogul and philanthropist who promotes literacy and education around the world.
The Power of Belief
Vernon Winfrey instilled in Oprah the belief that she could achieve anything she set her mind to. He encouraged her to have faith in herself and her abilities. Oprah has often said that her father’s unwavering belief in her made all the difference. It was this belief that gave her the courage to pursue her dreams, even when the odds seemed insurmountable.
As Oprah’s career in media began to take off, Vernon continued to be her rock. He was her biggest cheerleader, attending her shows and events whenever he could. Oprah’s relationship with her father was not just one of love but also of immense respect. She recognized the sacrifices he had made to ensure she had a better life.