Although Oprah is a massive name, she has faced a lot of hate. That includes Michael Jackson fans canceling her, and even starting a rift between Meghan Markle and her sister after their interview. Those that appear alongside Oprah are also taking a major risk, just ask Adele who was ripped by the media for appearing to be shallow during their conversation. Interviews haven't always been easy for Oprah and that was especially true during her time alongside Lindsay Lohan. Thankfully, Lohan is in a different place these days.
Oprah Winfrey Has A Polarizing History When It Comes To Hosting Interviews
Sure, Oprah might be known and recognized as the most popular interviewer in the world, however, that doesn't mean Oprah has a squeaky clean reputation. Those in the media, along with celebs and fans have taken exception to her ways behind the scenes and during interviews. A notable name to reject Oprah was Princess Diana. It was said that Dianna did not like Oprah's agenda.
"Diana never did tell the truth. Diana felt very uncomfortable with Oprah. She thought that Oprah was only after sensationalism - like when she interviewed Fergie about her book, and all she wanted to talk about was Diana,” wrote Lacey.
Quora discussions have also labeled Oprah in a negative light, bringing up her friendship and past photos alongside Harvey Weinstein. In addition, Michael Jackson fans had it out for Oprah, given her comments about their time together and apparently, unwillingly giving the late star another interview when he was trying to salvage his name from the rumors.
Alongside Lindsay Lohan however, this was an entirely different beast in itself.
Oprah's Interview With Lindsay Lohan Was A Disaster Behind The Scenes
One thing Oprah hasn't done, is turn her show into an episode of Jerry Springer... however, that was almost the case when Lindsay Lohan entered the mix. For eight episodes, Lohan was offered $2 million by Oprah, something she would quickly regret because of Lohan's behavior. It was said that Lohan was extremely rude to Oprah's staff behind the scenes and very hard to work with it. Things spiraled so badly that Oprah almost canceled the entire interview.
In truth, Oprah didn't hold back during the intense exchange, "This is just what everyone warned me would happen (working with her). And it is," Winfrey said.
"My truth is, I really do want you to win … but if that isn't what you want, I'm okay with that. I will tell these guys to pack up and leave today."
Although Oprah was harsh at the start, things would take an emotional twist.
"You don’t have head intelligence… You have heart intelligence," Oprah told the actress. "Phenomenal things are going to come from you if you do not block them."
"You make an agreement, keep your commitments. I cannot stand up for you, back you up and be there for you if I cannot trust you."
Knowing it was a big opportunity to change, Lohan improved during the experience and looking back, she did reveal that it changed her in many ways.
Lindsay Lohan Credited Oprah For Saving Her
Her experience on Oprah was definitely a life-changing one. The biggest realization for Lohan was to take care of herself, instead of putting others first.
"I think Oprah really gave me a different perspective on life and that really changed me," Lohan told Bennett. "I was just tired of taking care of everyone and being present for everyone. I just wanted to be there for myself and be okay with being alone. We forget that it’s okay to be alone."
"I feel whole again," she told Oprah during their 2013 interview, adding, "I have such a desire to want to keep this feeling and stay this way, and I’m willing to do whatever it takes."
Not only did the interview help, but it also created a real friendship between the two. According to Lohan, she would even invite Oprah to spend time with her in the summer.
"I actually invited Oprah to come to the beach club next summer, so let’s see if she bites. I would love to have her come and see it. It would really mean a lot to me."
At the very least, things ended up working out for the better.