Oprah gives taster for final show

Harpo Productions announced the episodes to air on May 23 and 24 would be taped on May 17 at the United Centre, just blocks from Oprah’s long-time studios. The show is dubbed `Surprise Oprah! A Farewell Spectacular’. But the content of the final episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show, to air May 25, is still […]

Harpo Productions announced the episodes to air on May 23 and 24 would be taped on May 17 at the United Centre, just blocks from Oprah’s long-time studios. The show is dubbed `Surprise Oprah! A Farewell Spectacular’.

But the content of the final episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show, to air May 25, is still under wraps. Oprah announced in November 2009 that she would end her popular talk show after 25 years.

Her producers said the guest line-up for the episodes would be a secret, but they promise “the biggest names in movies, music and television”.

“As most of our viewers know, being surprised is not one of Oprah’s favourite things,” said Sheri Salata, the show’s executive producer. “In the spirit of our farewell season, she is making a rare exception, and we intend to make the most of that opportunity. It will be something to see!”

The United Centre is home to the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks with a seating capacity of more than 20,000.

The crowd was estimated at 21,000 when Oprah closed down Chicago’s Michigan Avenue in September 2009 to film her 24th season premiere. Guests at that show included the Black Eyed Peas, Jennifer Hudson, Rascal Flatts and James Taylor.