Gayle King Addresses Oprah Romance Rumors

Gayle King recently addressed long-standing rumors about a secret romance with her close friend, Oprah Winfrey. Appearing on the Call Her Daddy podcast on May 27, 2026, King stated that such speculation used to bother her but clarified that if she and Winfrey were in a relationship, they would not conceal it.

Oprah Winfrey has been engaged to Stedman Graham since 1992, with their relationship beginning in 1986. Their first meeting occurred at a charity event. Winfrey recalled initial hesitations due to Graham being in another relationship but re-evaluated their connection when he became available.

The couple's engagement in 1992 was a significant step, however, Winfrey chose to cancel it in 1993. She explained that she did not wish to marry and that the compromises inherent in marriage were not something she was ready for.

Despite being together for nearly 40 years, Winfrey and Graham have never married. Winfrey has previously stated that Graham believed a traditional marriage would not have worked for her. She also noted that false reports about their relationship have influenced their public appearances.