Oprah explains why she’s happy to ‘go to hell’ for supporting LGBTQ rights in 1997 clip
"l believe god created Ellen, I believe god did that."
Words: Jamie Tabberer; picture: The Oprah Show
Oprah Winfrey is seen passionately defending LGBTQ rights on her talk show in a resurfaced clip from a 1997.
The star, whose explosive interview with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry has made world news this week, is also seen defending fellow talk show queen Ellen DeGeneres in the footage.
That same year, Ellen came out on the cover of TIME magazine, prompting a homophobic backlash.
“l believe god created Ellen, I believe god did that”
In the clip, Oprah is seen engaging with members of the audience of The Oprah Show, including one who praises her.
“It’s great that someone like Oprah [is paving] the way for acceptance in the community,” the guest says to clapping and cheering from the audience. “If that’s what we have to do to break down barriers, let’s do it.”
However, another then says: “I’ve seen it in the Bible. It clearly states homosexuality is wrong. I feel you are a powerful woman and have done so much. If you’re going to represent yourself as a Christian and […] say you also support that, it’s a double standard.”
“I have a different view of Christian than you do,” replies Oprah. “The God I serve doesn’t care whether you’re tall or short, or born Black or Asian or gay. So, that’s just a difference of belief.”
Oprah then describes a backstage argument, saying she was told she’ll go to hell for supporting LGBTQ rights.
“I take full responsibility for my going to hell or heaven,” she says. “I feel everybody who’s concerned about me now going to hell for doing The Ellen DeGeneres Show, I think you all should take that energy and create a little heaven here on Earth.”
View this post on Instagram
(Above: a still from Oprah’s interview with Meghan and Harry)
She later continues: “I believe God created Ellen. I believe God did that. If Ellen says she’s gay, I believe God created her gay.”
The guest then starts crying, saying: “You can’t stand up there in front of this whole American society and say you support that.”
“I support her right to be who she think she is!” Oprah shouts back.
H/t: PN.
Read the Attitude April Style issue, out now to download and to order globally.
Subscribe in print and get your first three issues for just £1 each, or digitally for just over £1.50 per issue.
