Television icon Oprah Winfrey recently had to cancel a planned appearance following an unexpected health issue. According to her representative, the incident led to her being hospitalized.
In June 2024, her team shared via Instagram that Oprah had been scheduled to appear on CBS Mornings to announce her newest book club pick. Unfortunately, she came down with a stomach virus during the weekend. Longtime friend Gayle King later appeared on air to clarify Oprah’s sudden absence.
“We’re relieved to report that Oprah is recovering well after receiving IV fluids for dehydration, as advised by her physician,” her spokesperson said in a public statement.
Supporters quickly flooded social media with kind messages:
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“Wishing her a full and fast recovery.”
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“Take all the time you need, your health is the priority.”
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“Sending healing energy and love.”
On CBS Mornings, Gayle King shared additional context. She explained that Oprah had been suffering from a particularly severe stomach flu.
“It was one of those bugs that hits you hard—she was extremely ill, dealing with symptoms on both ends,” King said. “She ended up in the hospital due to dehydration and needed IV treatment. It was a pretty intense experience.”
Despite the ordeal, King assured viewers that Oprah was already feeling better and joked that her friend might not be thrilled about such a public disclosure.
Oprah at 70: Thriving and Grateful
Although she faced health challenges, Oprah remains in remarkable shape for her age. In January 2024, she celebrated her 70th birthday by highlighting her dedication to staying active and appreciating life’s blessings.
She posted a video on Instagram showing herself jogging along the beach with her dog and a companion. Wearing a sporty purple outfit, she captioned the clip with a message emphasizing that health is life’s greatest gift, thanking everyone for their birthday wishes.
The video included the words “This Is 70!”—a message of empowerment. Oprah also published a personal reflection on Oprah Daily, where she shared her thoughts on entering a new decade.
“As I step into 70, I feel profoundly grateful. Aging—when you have the means to look after yourself—is a blessing. Reaching this milestone feels like grace in motion,” she wrote.
Rather than throwing a lavish party, Oprah took a simpler route based on advice from a friend:
“He told me, ‘You’re too blessed to stress. Savor the fragrances of your extraordinary life.’ And I did just that.”
She added that she tries to begin every morning with gratitude, aware of the fleeting nature of time and the gift of being alive.
Aging with Wisdom and Purpose
Oprah has spoken openly about embracing age and all the insight that comes with it. She noted:
“They say you’ll never be as young as you are right now—and I’m okay with that. Aging brings its own kind of freedom—the freedom to choose what matters most.”
She emphasized that aging helps sharpen one’s priorities and decision-making. In her 70s, she continues to pursue her fitness goals, from hiking her favorite nature trails to walking with her dogs—always choosing vitality and intention in how she lives each day.