In this episode, we get to see the miracle of the Jackson interview realized. Erin Sermeus, a new player, Manager of Booking and Talent Relations, and the “Star Handholder” is introduced to us and we see very quickly that if people had the power to move mountains, she would have that power. The story consumed the lives of those involved for months. Cindy Mori (wait, are she and You Don’t Know Jack related?), the Director of Booking says she likes to “under promise and over deliver.” I LIVE by that mantra. So, the date is set for October 9th at the Jackson family compound.
When Oprah realized that the interview possibly included “the children” she said, “I knew our views would love that!” Yes…we all just want to know that they are ok. It’s that maternal, caring thing that we have caught from the past 25 years of watching you. “This is big,” says Oprah. Her staff says…she doesn’t say this very much….so when she does, you know it is….BIG. So, let’s block out 2 hours for the interview and then, afterwards, Oprah and Gayle are invited for dinner. Sounds like a plan. Where’s the drama?
We don’t know what’s going to happen until we are there…Michael Jackson’s children who have never been interviewed ever may not join the interview…Oprah asks herself, “Michael Jackson – what would Michael Jackson say about his children being interviewed and how do I do it in a way that is not exploiting the children.” Always, seeing the bigger picture and not just what is right in front of her. This is another reason we love Oprah so much.
Finally, we find out that Mrs. Jackson’s feelings were hurt after the ‘93 interview…because Oprah never called them again. Oprah so eloquently tells us how she feels about that. “The interview went great….but…at the end of the interview he didn’t say, “God, that was so great. Call me sometime.” Every celebrity friend I have is a celebrity friend because they opened the door to me. Otherwise, I’d be calling Hugh Jackman everyday.” This makes sense…Oprah, if you ever interview me….you can call me.
Back at the ranch…or the Harpo Studios….Sheri Salata is running her Monday morning staff meeting. Looks like it takes place in the studio every Monday morning and she and her staff go over what they are working on for the week. A big story, the freed American hiker from Iran is doing an interview. What a story! So, during the meeting, Oprah sneaks in…a little late with a big smoothie…some big sunglasses….it was funny. Apparently, she came in from her colonoscopy for her protein shake…and then, was going home to go back to bed for the day. “Colonoscopy – the easiest, simplest thing you can ever do. It’s a sedation vacation,” Oprah calls it. We also learn that Ms. Winfrey does not like to go #2 in a public bathroom…probably for the same reason most of us do not want to….plus add the fact that it will be a tabloid story as well…so, Oprah waited out the janitor. I just have 2 words here…courtesy flush.
Getting ready for the in-studio interview of Sarah Shoud, the freed American hiker, Oprah is briefed. Sarah was held for 14 months and was released for some reason, but not for health reasons like Iran said. She was hours away from the border taking a hike. In a matter of days, we are reminded that she has gone from solitary confinement in a foreign country to the Oprah Winfrey Show in front of millions of worldwide viewers. This is her first sit down and for the first 2 months, she was held completely alone. “Welcome home Sarah.” So, when Oprah says “we’ll be in touch” after the interview…what exactly does that mean? Hmmmm….
Back to Michael Jackson…. we have a whole Harpo team at the Hayvenhurst Estate, aka the Jackson Family Compound. We have: Erin Sermeus, Manager of Booking and Talent Relations and Dave Rivera, Sr. Field Producer who are in charge of the “get ready.” Andrea Wishom, the Senior Supervising Producer is the top Harpo producer onsite. This is her baby….and she understands the awesomeness of this opportunity. This is the Jackson family home…where they all grew up…and where Mrs. Jackson lives now with Michael’s children. This is big….and we realize that it is not lost that every detail has to be looked at….and done right for them to bring us this story.
During the wait for the interview and even during it, there is concern that the kid’s might change their minds. It is up to them if they want to participate in the interview. That something might change with the plan. It doesn’t help matters that there are lots of people inside the house. Mr. Jackson is here. His film crew from Japan is here for his reality show. Family. Friends. Everyone is standing around. It’s crazy…. Anyway, Oprah can talk about anything….”There is nothing we can’t talk about.”
Oprah arrives with her best friend by her side. “Staying present, staying now and not worrying about what is to come,” is what her focus is. This is what makes her so…Oprah.
“Today we are going to focus on Michael and a mother, dealing with the grief of losing a son…and the children dealing with their grief.” Oprah does not loose site, this has been a traumatic time for this family. We find out…people at the hospital told her, “you can leave now,” and Paris asked her, “Grandma, where are we going?” “Mrs. Jackson is one of the loveliest, dearest people I’ve ever met,” says Oprah. Oprah and Mrs. Jackson connecting…it was lovely to see. “As a black woman….I’m so proud of you,” Mrs. Jackson tells Oprah in a behind the scenes moment. It was a sincere sweet moment. I’m glad it was shared through this show.
Finally, stress laid to rest. Here come Michael’s children and cousins outside to the table….for some lemonade and a little bit more. “Seeing Michael Jackson through the eyes of his children make him more accessible,” observes Oprah. “Say your name and what your favorite food is?” she asks the kids. Michael would be proud.
Finally, a catered dinner and an exit. Oprah tells us how she felt a real special connection to Mrs. Jackson. “I can see why Michael loved her so much. The humanity and sweetness of her heart. No pretense. No showmanship. Just real.”
So…the things I learned this week on BTS: Season 25?
- People do what they know…and sometimes, they don’t know any better.
- Michael Jackson’s kids are really ok.
- Joe Jackson has a reality show in Japan?….seriously?