As Oprah’s Behind the Scenes comes closer to the end, Oprah is working through this episode in deciding what she will say for the last Oprah Winfrey Show. As she takes us through her OWN process, she contemplates “what do i want to say that i really hold true and dear to myself.” While Sheri is there to hold her hand, Sheri tells us, “I’m going to be there but it’s her show…she should produce it…and nobody but Oprah herself knows what the perfect content will be…”
Into all of the details, Oprah gets to experience the whole show process – what it’s like to be the executive producer of her own show. Oprah is “in the weeds” and taking in the whole experience. “I always knew that the last show would be about the grace that has allowed us to move through the last 25 years,” Oprah tells us, “and about my gratitude to the viewers.” From the planning, it’s clear…Oprah is pouring her heart and soul into this show…and it resonates here even as much as it did on her last show. This is a love letter in the making.
As Harponians pack up their offices and lives and get ready for their OWN next chapter, emotions are high. “This is not just a job, this is a lifestyle,” Producer Jill Van Lockern shares. “To not show up to work everyday is going to be the hardest thing in the world for me.” Everything is changing. How the company walks through these changes and how people handle it is captured by BTS…and in itself, is its OWN love letter to Harpo employees.
As Oprah goes through her the planning and rehearsal of her final show, she reminds us that she doesn’t rehearse ever…but for this last show, she has to get it right. Director Joe Terry and Production Designer Tara Denise share how they are feeling about their OWN journey through the Oprah Show. A lifetime…a lifestyle…a classroom. It’s an emotional ending for many.
As Oprah’s BFF arrives, Gayle came in a little early to be there for Oprah…just as she has been there for the entire journey. Showing a glimpse into how Stedman and Gayle both love and support Oprah, it all starts to get real…again. Oprah is ending her show…and it’s a big deal. Sheri tries to keep everyone on schedule…and finally, we get to rehearsal. Oprah knows, she has to get this right…because for the OWS there is no tomorrow. A first for everyone, Oprah’s rehearsal will help make everyone more at ease…let them get their rhythm. Sheri reminds us, “It will be emotional…” and it is…
The next morning, Oprah tells us, “What surprises me most is it’s like every other morning.” Kirby, Gayle’s daughter, Oprah’s God-daughter and someone who has been in Oprah’s life since her sonogram picture is there with Oprah and is sharing the moment. Libby Moore, Oprah’s Chief of Staff, is also there to make sure Oprah get’s on her way. That same morning, we see that Joe Terry as he meets with his staff and gets them ready for the day. His pre-show meeting is emotional but honest and on point…a job well done Mr. Terry.
Focused and ready, Oprah says on her drive in to Harpo studios, “I’ve always known that this was time and that this was THE time and I feel very confident in whatever the future is.” Oprah shares that “I am very confident that I will be alright and that I am exactly where I’m suppose to be in this moment and that whatever is suppose to unfold for me is the next best thing.” So wise…THIS is the feeling we should all look for. THIS is exactly the feeling that will move us through life gracefully and with ease.
Before the sun rose at 5am, Oprah shares that she was up and meditating. She says she “meditated until the sun rose. Praying to be in alignment today,” and tells us that “everything that I’ve ever done in my whole life is about what I want to say in this moment.” This moment…the last show.
With a room full of viewers, Sally Loveman loves giving the joy of Oprah to all of her audiences. As Andre prepares Oprah’s hair and Kirby lovingly gives the family support, Oprah takes it all in. As Sheri wipes the tears before the taping…as the audience comes in…As Oprah’s family looks on lovingly…it’s time. For the last hour of the Oprah Show…it’s almost time.