Oprah Winfrey is the majority owner of her own media enterprise, Harpo Productions Inc.
This company produces all of her various television programs, films, magazines, and other projects.
She also owns a 10 percent stake in Weight Watchers International, a global dieting and weight loss program.
Keep reading to find out what companies does Oprah Winfrey own and the details of her business empire.
Who is Oprah Winfrey?
Oprah Winfrey is a globally recognized media mogul, philanthropist, actress, and producer. She rose from a difficult childhood marked by poverty and trauma to become one of the most powerful and influential women in the world. Best known for her long-running talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show, she has shaped culture, championed social issues, and built a multibillion-dollar empire spanning media, wellness, and entertainment.
Early Life and Background
Oprah Gail Winfrey was born on January 29, 1954, in Kosciusko, Mississippi. She was raised by her grandmother in rural poverty and later lived with her mother in Milwaukee. Her early years were turbulent; she faced abuse and numerous hardships. Despite these challenges, Oprah was a gifted child. By the age of 17, she was already working in radio and television broadcasting.
She attended Tennessee State University, a historically Black college, where she studied communications. Her career began in local media, and her charisma quickly set her apart from others in the industry.
Rise to Fame: The Oprah Winfrey Show
In 1984, Oprah took over AM Chicago, a low-rated morning talk show. Within months, it became the highest-rated talk show in the city. Its success led to national syndication in 1986 under the new title The Oprah Winfrey Show.
Running for 25 seasons until 2011, the show was a cultural phenomenon. Oprah’s empathetic interviewing style, openness about personal struggles, and focus on self-improvement resonated deeply with audiences. She covered everything from celebrity interviews to social issues like addiction, abuse, and racism.
Business Ventures and OWN
Oprah’s entrepreneurial drive led her to form Harpo Productions in 1986. Harpo (Oprah spelled backward) gave her full control over her show and content. This move was groundbreaking and financially revolutionary for a woman of color in media.
In 2011, she launched the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), a joint venture with Discovery, Inc. OWN has aired popular shows including Super Soul Sunday and Greenleaf. Though OWN had a challenging start, it eventually found its audience and became a profitable venture.
Acting and Film Contributions
Oprah has also made her mark in film. Her performance in The Color Purple (1985), directed by Steven Spielberg, earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She has also produced and starred in several projects, including Beloved, Selma, A Wrinkle in Time, and The Butler.
Through Harpo Films, Oprah has championed stories that explore identity, injustice, and resilience, often focusing on Black experiences in America.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Oprah is a major philanthropist, donating hundreds of millions of dollars to education, health, and leadership initiatives. One of her most notable projects is the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa, founded in 2007 to provide top-tier education to underprivileged girls.
She has also supported numerous causes in the U.S., including scholarships, disaster relief, and programs promoting mental health and literacy.
Awards and Recognition
Over her career, Oprah has received countless honors:
- Presidential Medal of Freedom (2013)
- Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award (2011)
- Multiple Daytime Emmy Awards
- Induction into the National Women’s Hall of Fame
She is frequently cited in Forbes and Time magazine’s lists of the world’s most influential people.
Personal Life and Beliefs
Oprah is known for her introspective nature and deep spirituality. Though she never married, she has been in a long-term relationship with Stedman Graham since 1986. She does not have children, and she has spoken openly about that choice.
Her beliefs emphasize mindfulness, gratitude, self-growth, and giving back. Her platform has helped normalize therapy, meditation, and open discussions about trauma and healing.
What Companies Does Oprah Winfrey Own?
Oprah Winfrey is not just a media personality—she is a savvy businesswoman with ownership in several companies and brands across entertainment, publishing, wellness, and food industries. Her empire spans from production companies to strategic equity investments that reflect her values and vision.
Here’s a list of the major brands and companies owned by Oprah Winfrey:
| Company/Brand | Year Founded / Acquired | Type of Ownership | Category | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harpo Productions | 1986 | Sole Ownership | Media Production | Oprah’s primary multimedia company; produced The Oprah Winfrey Show and multiple films. |
| Harpo Films | 1993 (closed in 2013) | Subsidiary | Film Production | Focused on social-issue films; responsible for The Great Debaters and Precious. |
| Harpo Print, LLC | 2000 | Subsidiary | Publishing | Managed O, The Oprah Magazine and Oprah’s Book Club operations. |
| OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) | 2011 (launched) | Minority Stake (5%) | Television Network | Joint venture with Discovery; focuses on African American storytelling and empowerment. |
| Oprah Daily | 2021 (digital relaunch) | Co-ownership with Hearst | Digital Media | Digital evolution of O, The Oprah Magazine; features wellness, inspiration, and life advice. |
| Oprah’s Book Club | 1996 | Full Ownership | Book Publishing | Integrated with Apple Books; has catapulted dozens of titles to bestseller lists. |
| WW International (Weight Watchers) | 2015 (investment) | Former 10% Stake | Health & Wellness | Oprah joined the board and rebranded WW as a holistic health company. |
| True Food Kitchen | 2018 (investment) | Minority Investor | Restaurant / Wellness | Health-conscious restaurant chain; Oprah advises on branding and expansion. |
| O, That’s Good! | 2017 (launch) | Joint Venture with Kraft Heinz | Food Products | Healthy comfort foods line; part of Oprah’s push for better nutrition. |
| Oxygen Media | 2000 (co-founder) | Co-founder (sold in 2007) | Television Network | Women-centered media channel; later sold to NBCUniversal. |
| Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation | 2010 | Full Ownership | Philanthropy | Funds education, disaster relief, and women-focused causes. |
| Oprah’s Angel Network | 1998 (closed in 2010) | Full Ownership | Philanthropy | Raised $80M for global aid, education, and housing initiatives. |
| Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy (OWLAG) | 2007 | Full Founder/Owner | Education / Charity | Elite girls’ school in South Africa; personally funded by Oprah. |
| Apeel Sciences | 2019 (investment) | Minority Investor | Agri-tech / Sustainability | Creates plant-based coatings to extend produce shelf life. |
| Oatly | 2020 (investment) | Minority Investor | Plant-Based Foods | Swedish oat milk brand; investment supports sustainable, dairy-free living. |
| Waywire | 2012 (investment) | Minority Investor | Digital Media / Tech | Video platform for curated news; later merged with Magnify.net. |
Harpo Productions
Harpo Productions is Oprah’s flagship company, founded in 1986. The name “Harpo” is “Oprah” spelled backward. This production company was the vehicle through which she gained full control of The Oprah Winfrey Show, making her one of the first Black women in media to own her own production house.
Harpo has produced:
- The Oprah Winfrey Show
- Dr. Phil, Rachael Ray, The Dr. Oz Show (co-produced)
- TV films like Tuesdays with Morrie and Their Eyes Were Watching God
- Films including Selma and The Great Debaters
Harpo Productions has since expanded into digital media and publishing.
Harpo Films
A division of Harpo Productions, Harpo Films focuses specifically on developing and producing scripted films. Oprah uses this platform to bring socially relevant, emotionally powerful stories to life, often centered around African American experiences or stories of personal transformation.
Notable projects include:
- The Color Purple (2023 musical adaptation)
- Precious (executive producer)
- The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (HBO)
Harpo Print, LLC
This branch of Harpo handles Oprah’s ventures in publishing, including her magazines and book projects. It was instrumental in launching O, The Oprah Magazine, which ran from 2000 to 2020 in print and continues as a digital brand.
Oprah’s Book Club, also managed under her print brand, remains one of the most influential book endorsements in the publishing world.
OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network
Launched in 2011, OWN is a cable television network co-founded by Oprah Winfrey and Discovery Communications. Initially struggling with ratings, the channel found success by shifting toward scripted drama, reality series, and inspirational content targeted to Black audiences.
Popular shows on OWN include:
- Greenleaf
- Queen Sugar
- The Haves and the Have Nots
- Super Soul Sunday
In 2020, Oprah sold a portion of her ownership in OWN to Discovery, reducing her stake but remaining creatively involved.
Oprah Daily
Oprah Daily is the digital successor to O, The Oprah Magazine. It’s an online platform co-owned by Oprah and Hearst Communications. The site features wellness advice, personal growth articles, book recommendations, interviews, and inspiration-driven content curated by Oprah’s team.
It reflects her evolving media strategy in the digital age while keeping her brand voice consistent.
Oprah’s Book Club
Although often seen as part of her shows or magazine, Oprah’s Book Club functions as its own powerful brand. Launched in 1996, it has propelled dozens of books to bestseller status and is now integrated with Apple Books.
In partnership with Apple, she created Oprah’s Book Club 2.0, offering readers deeper digital engagement, exclusive author interviews, and multimedia content.
WeightWatchers (WW International, Inc.)
In 2015, Oprah bought a 10% stake in WeightWatchers and joined its board of directors. She also became the face of the brand, incorporating her personal wellness journey into the company’s rebranding toward holistic health.
Though she has since reduced her stake, she still holds equity and her influence contributed to a resurgence in the company’s brand image and sales.
True Food Kitchen (Investment)
Oprah made a strategic investment in True Food Kitchen, a health-focused restaurant chain founded by Dr. Andrew Weil. While she doesn’t own the entire brand, her backing has helped fuel the brand’s national expansion.
She also joined the board of directors and is involved in menu ideas and wellness branding.
O, That’s Good! (Food Brand with Kraft Heinz)
Launched in 2017 in partnership with Kraft Heinz, O, That’s Good! is a food line developed by Oprah that focuses on comfort foods with a healthy twist. Products included soups, sides, and frozen meals enriched with vegetables like cauliflower and sweet potatoes.
Although the brand has had mixed retail success, it reflects Oprah’s desire to combine wellness with accessibility.
Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation (OWCF)
Though not a commercial brand, the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation is a major part of her empire. It manages her philanthropic activities, including:
- The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa
- COVID-19 relief funds
- Grants to nonprofits focused on education and empowerment
While this foundation is nonprofit, it contributes significantly to the Oprah brand and mission.
Oprah’s Angel Network
Oprah’s Angel Network was founded in 1998 as a charitable initiative aimed at encouraging public involvement in philanthropic efforts. It began as a campaign on The Oprah Winfrey Show, inviting viewers to make donations and support various causes. What made this organization unique was Oprah’s personal commitment to transparency—100% of the donations went directly to charity projects, as she covered all operational costs herself.
The Angel Network raised over $80 million. It funded over 60 schools in 13 countries, provided hundreds of scholarships to underprivileged youth in the U.S., and partnered with organizations like Habitat for Humanity to build homes for families in need.
It also offered critical support during global emergencies, such as Hurricane Katrina and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. The Angel Network officially closed in 2010, shortly before The Oprah Winfrey Show ended, but its legacy lives on through Oprah’s ongoing philanthropic work under the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation.
Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG)
The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) opened in 2007 in Henley on Klip, South Africa, following a promise Oprah made to Nelson Mandela. She committed to building an elite school that would provide quality education to academically gifted girls from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Oprah personally funded the school with an investment of over $40 million, making it one of the most ambitious educational efforts ever undertaken by a celebrity philanthropist. The academy is a fully residential, college-preparatory institution that offers students a world-class education, leadership development, life skills, and emotional support. OWLAG’s facilities include science labs, technology centers, wellness clinics, and arts spaces, providing an environment where girls can thrive.
Many graduates have gone on to attend universities such as Harvard, Stanford, Oxford, and the University of Cape Town. Oprah remains actively involved in the school, frequently visiting and mentoring students, reinforcing her long-term commitment to female empowerment and education.
Apeel Sciences
Apeel Sciences is a biotechnology company that Oprah invested in during 2019, aligning with her growing interest in sustainability and food innovation. The company is known for developing an edible, plant-based coating that extends the shelf life of fresh produce by reducing moisture loss and oxidation.
This innovation helps reduce food waste—a major global issue—while also reducing the need for plastic packaging and cold storage. Apeel’s coating is already being used by major U.S. retailers like Kroger and Walmart, allowing fruits and vegetables to stay fresher for longer on store shelves and in consumers’ homes.
Oprah’s investment in Apeel not only supports sustainable agriculture but also reflects her broader mission to improve public health, promote responsible consumption, and invest in companies that positively impact both people and the planet. Other notable investors in Apeel include Bill Gates and the Rockefeller Foundation, further cementing its reputation as a leader in agri-tech innovation.
Oatly
Oatly, the Swedish oat milk giant, is another health-conscious brand Oprah added to her investment portfolio in 2020. Alongside investors like Jay-Z and Natalie Portman, Oprah joined a $200 million funding round to help the company scale its production and expand internationally. Oatly offers plant-based dairy alternatives made from oats, praised for their sustainability and creamy texture.
The company promotes environmental consciousness, claiming that producing oat milk uses significantly less water and generates fewer emissions than dairy milk. Oprah’s investment in Oatly reflects her longstanding interest in wellness and healthy living.
As more consumers seek dairy-free, lactose-free, and eco-friendly alternatives, Oatly has become a leader in the plant-based market. The company went public in 2021, and although its stock has fluctuated, Oprah’s involvement helped generate significant buzz and awareness in North America. Her support underscores her commitment to promoting healthier dietary habits while championing sustainable business practices.
Waywire
Waywire was a short-lived but ambitious video curation platform co-founded in 2012 by U.S. Senator Cory Booker. The platform was designed to allow users—particularly young, socially engaged audiences—to curate, share, and comment on video content related to news, culture, and civic issues.
Oprah was one of the early investors in Waywire, signaling her growing interest in technology and digital media innovation. The platform aimed to democratize content creation by giving more control to everyday users and emerging voices, something that aligned with Oprah’s values of inclusion and empowerment. Despite its promising mission, Waywire faced tough competition in the crowded online video market and was acquired by Magnify.net in 2013.
The Waywire brand eventually dissolved, but Oprah’s support of the venture revealed her willingness to back bold, disruptive ideas—even in the evolving digital landscape. It also highlighted her desire to empower younger generations with platforms that support informed dialogue and social change.
When Oprah Winfrey Founded Her Business?
Oprah Winfrey started her media enterprise, Harpo Productions Inc., in 1986.
Oprah Winfrey founded her business empire in the mid-1980s, starting with the creation of Harpo Productions in 1986. The name “Harpo” is derived from her first name spelled backward.
Initially, the company was a production entity for her hit talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show. Over time, Harpo expanded into various media ventures, including film, television, and publishing.
Oprah’s keen business sense allowed her to turn her brand into a multi-faceted media powerhouse, ultimately leading to her becoming one of the most influential figures in entertainment and business.
Oprah Winfrey Net Worth
As of April 2025, Oprah Winfrey’s net worth is estimated at $3 billion.
This valuation places her among the world’s wealthiest self-made women and underscores her enduring influence in the entertainment and media industries.
Sources of Wealth
Oprah’s fortune is primarily derived from her extensive media empire, which includes:
- Television and Film: The Oprah Winfrey Show, which ran for 25 seasons, significantly contributed to her wealth. Additionally, her production company, Harpo Productions, has been instrumental in producing various successful television programs and films.
- OWN Network: As the founder and CEO of the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), Oprah has expanded her brand into cable television, further solidifying her financial standing.
- Real Estate: Oprah’s real estate portfolio is substantial, featuring properties in locations such as Chicago, California, and Hawaii. Notably, she owns approximately 900 acres of land in Maui, adding to her extensive holdings.
- Investments: Her investments in companies like Weight Watchers and other ventures have also contributed to her wealth.
Philanthropy
Oprah is renowned for her philanthropic efforts. Through initiatives like the Oprah Winfrey Foundation and Oprah’s Angel Network, she has donated hundreds of millions of dollars to various causes, including education, women’s rights, and disaster relief.
Legacy and Influence
Beyond her financial success, Oprah’s impact extends to her role as a cultural icon and advocate for social change. Her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a media mogul serves as an inspiration to many.
Here’s an overview of Oprah Winfrey’s net worth over the past decade:
| Year | Estimated Net Worth (USD) | Major Business Events | Real Estate Acquisitions | Notable Investments/Deals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $2.45 billion | Continued success of The Oprah Winfrey Show reruns; expanding OWN network | Purchased a $28 million estate in Maui | Focus on expanding OWN network |
| 2016 | $2.56 billion | Increased media presence via partnerships with Apple and Weight Watchers | Expanded property holdings in California | Invested in Weight Watchers |
| 2017 | $3.6 billion | Book deals, expansion of digital content | No major acquisitions reported | Continued growth in Weight Watchers stock value |
| 2018 | $4.5 billion | Launch of SuperSoul Conversations podcast; expanded OWN network’s reach | Acquired a large plot of land in Maui | Weight Watchers stock saw significant rise |
| 2019 | $5.9 billion | Continued growth in OWN network; successful launch of Oprah’s 2020 Vision Tour | Maintained ownership of expansive properties in Malibu and Hawaii | Growth in Weight Watchers and partnerships |
| 2020 | $6.8 billion | Partnership with Apple for exclusive content, such as the Oprah Talks COVID-19 series | Continued investments in real estate in Maui | Major growth from digital content and partnerships |
| 2021 | $3 billion | Oprah with Meghan and Harry interview brings global attention | No major acquisitions reported | Shifted focus to exclusive content creation and digital partnerships |
| 2022 | $2.8 billion | Expanded content deals with Spotify and Apple | Retained primary real estate holdings | Strong performance in partnerships with Apple and digital content ventures |
| 2023 | $3.5 billion | Focus on new media projects with Weight Watchers and OWN | Maintained estate properties in Malibu and Maui | Investments in mental wellness startups |
| 2024 | $3 billion | Continued exclusive partnerships with Apple; increased podcasting success | Real estate values remained steady | New investment opportunities in media ventures |
| 2025 | $3.5 billion | Further content expansion via partnerships with digital streaming platforms | Focus on Maui properties; no new acquisitions | Adjusted strategy towards digital content and growing wellness investments |
How Many Employees Does Oprah Winfrey Have?
As of 2025, Oprah Winfrey’s media enterprise, encompassing Harpo Productions Inc. and the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), employs over 3,000 individuals across various divisions. OWN, in particular, has approximately 3,000 employees. Harpo Productions, which focuses on content creation and production, has a smaller team, with estimates ranging from 250 to 500 employees. These figures reflect the substantial scale of Oprah’s media operations, spanning television, publishing, and digital content.
Conclusion
Oprah Winfrey’s business empire is as diverse and intentional as her media career. From producing award-winning content to investing in health, publishing, and philanthropy, she has built a brand that stands for empowerment, wellness, and inspiration. Each company and brand she touches reflects her personal journey and values, making her not only a billionaire but a cultural force.
FAQs
What Are 5 Interesting Facts About Oprah Winfrey?
- Oprah Winfrey was the first black female billionaire in history.
- She is an Academy Award-nominated actress, having starred in the movie The Color Purple.
- Winfrey created her own magazine, O: The Oprah Magazine, which has become extremely popular and successful since its launch in 2000.
- Oprah was listed as one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century five times between 1998 and 2018.
- Winfrey owns a 10 percent stake in Weight Watchers International, a global weight loss program she joined in 2015 to help shed pounds herself after years of struggles with her weight.
What Companies Does Oprah Winfrey Own?
Oprah Winfrey owns several successful businesses and media ventures, the most prominent being Harpo Productions, which she founded in 1986. Harpo Productions is responsible for the creation of The Oprah Winfrey Show and has expanded into television, film, and publishing. She also owns the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), a major cable network that features original content, reality TV, and talk shows. Additionally, Oprah has investments in companies like Weight Watchers (now WW International), where she holds a significant stake.
What is Harpo Productions?
Harpo Productions, founded by Oprah Winfrey in 1986, is a multimedia production company that has played a major role in shaping Oprah’s media empire. Harpo has produced The Oprah Winfrey Show, the Oprah’s Book Club, and other successful projects in television and film. It has expanded to include ventures in publishing, and Oprah has used Harpo to maintain control over the content she produces, ensuring her voice remains central to her brand.
Does Oprah Winfrey Own OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network)?
Yes, Oprah Winfrey owns the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). She co-founded the network in 2011 in partnership with Discovery, Inc., and it serves as the primary platform for much of Oprah’s original programming. OWN features shows like The Haves and the Have Nots, Queen Sugar, and SuperSoul Sunday. Oprah serves as the CEO and is heavily involved in content decisions for the network.
How Much of Weight Watchers Does Oprah Winfrey Own?
Oprah Winfrey holds a significant stake in Weight Watchers (now WW International). She purchased a 10% stake in the company in 2015 for around $43 million and also became a member of its board of directors. Oprah later increased her investment, and her involvement with the brand helped lead to its resurgence in popularity. She also plays an active role in the company’s marketing campaigns and wellness initiatives.
What Other Companies Has Oprah Invested In?
Apart from Harpo Productions, OWN, and Weight Watchers, Oprah has made investments in several other companies. She is known for her investments in health and wellness, including Mindbody, a wellness technology company. Oprah has also invested in companies like True Food Kitchen, a health-conscious restaurant chain, and a number of startups focused on personal wellness, mental health, and sustainability. Her investments generally reflect her personal interests in wellness, entrepreneurship, and female empowerment.
What is Oprah Winfrey Daughter Age?
Oprah Winfrey does not have any biological children, including a daughter. She has never had a daughter of her own. Oprah has often spoken about her decision not to have children and has been a motherly figure to many, especially to the girls at her Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa, whom she considers her “daughters.”
How Many Businesses Does Oprah Winfrey Own?
Oprah Winfrey owns several businesses, primarily in the media, wellness, and lifestyle sectors. Notable companies she owns or has a significant stake in include:
- Harpo Productions: Her multimedia production company, which produced The Oprah Winfrey Show and other successful projects.
- Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN): A cable network she co-founded, offering original programming, reality TV, and talk shows.
- WW International (formerly Weight Watchers): Oprah is a major shareholder in the wellness company, with a significant investment.
- Other Investments: Oprah also holds stakes in various wellness startups, restaurants like True Food Kitchen, and other ventures.
While the exact number can fluctuate, Oprah’s business ventures span multiple industries, reflecting her broad entrepreneurial interests.
Does Oprah Have a Production Company?
Yes, Oprah Winfrey has a production company called Harpo Productions. Founded in 1986, Harpo Productions is responsible for creating much of Oprah’s content, including The Oprah Winfrey Show, as well as various film and television projects. The company has played a major role in Oprah’s rise to media mogul status and continues to be a key part of her brand.
Is Oprah a CEO?
Yes, Oprah Winfrey is the CEO of Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), which she co-founded in 2011. She serves as the CEO and has a direct hand in shaping the network’s content and direction. Oprah’s leadership role in OWN is just one example of her executive involvement in various other ventures, including Harpo Productions and her stake in WW International.