Monday, Dec. 03, 2001
Oprah Winfrey
Media Mogul
Like Cher and Tiger, she is one of a handful of people whose first name alone guarantees recognition. Winfrey, 47, has ruled as the queen of daytime talk television since the mid-1980s. Her show now airs in 112 countries. Her seal of approval for a book guarantees skyrocketing sales. And last year she pulled off the most successful magazine launch in history. Winfrey's company, Harpo Entertainment, includes Internet ventures, rounding out her TV, film and publishing deals. Reigning as the nation's top tastemaker, she is worth an estimated $800 million, with a fan base whose loyalty and buying power are unrivaled.