Gayle King Says Oprah Winfrey Lesbian Rumors ‘Used to Really Bother Me’

**Gayle King Addresses Romance Speculations with Oprah Winfrey**

Veteran journalist Gayle King has recently opened up about the longstanding speculation surrounding her relationship with fellow media icon Oprah Winfrey. During a candid appearance on the podcast ‘Call Her Daddy’, King shared her evolving stance on the persistent chatter regarding whether the two are more than just friends.

The 71-year-old broadcaster explained how the rumours, which once troubled her, no longer hold the same weight in her life. Reflecting on her past experience, she recalled how the headlines had a more significant impact on her during a tumultuous period following her divorce. King referred to an article in the National Enquirer that suggested her divorce was because she and Winfrey were “secretly gay.” She firmly stated, “Number one, if we were gay, we would tell you because, believe me, there’s nothing wrong with it. It’s just, I prefer a man.”

King elaborated on how she used to urge Winfrey to publicly address the speculation. She recalled telling her friend that it would be beneficial to clarify their relationship on air, saying, “You’ve got to say something on your show because it’s hard enough for me to get a date on a Saturday night, and now people think I’m a lesbian.” However, Winfrey preferred to let the rumours fade away, leading King to feel a sense of isolation.

“I used to care a lot,” King admitted, reflecting on how the situation affected her. “But now, even today, there are still people that say, ‘Well, you know, the truth is…’ I don’t care.” She indicated that she has reached a point in her life where she is largely indifferent to public opinion and judgements.

King believes that maturity has brought her the wisdom to prioritise her well-being and the opinions of those she respects. “I’ve now gotten to the point in my life that very few things get to me,” she added, emphasising the importance of surrounding herself with people who provide genuine feedback. She has learned that external murmurs can often be irrelevant in the face of one’s self-assuredness.

The friendship between King and Winfrey dates back nearly half a century, having begun when both were employees at WJZ-TV in Baltimore. Their connection was forged during a snowstorm in which Winfrey graciously offered her apartment to a young King, who had just turned 21. The two spent the night bonding, an experience that laid the foundation for an enduring friendship. Winfrey fondly reminisced, “We’ve literally been friends ever since.”

Part of the allure stemming from their friendship is how it has captured the public’s imagination. King shared that she often hears people refer to their personal connections to the iconic duo. “I always get, ‘This is my Oprah.’ It’s one of the biggest compliments,” she noted. Similarly, Winfrey expressed appreciation when people say, ‘This is my Gayle,’ understanding the depths of loyalty and support that such statements convey.

As they navigate the complexities of fame, King and Winfrey remain steadfast in their relationship. The two continue to support one another in both their personal and professional ventures, showcasing a bond that transcends speculation or public scrutiny.

King concluded her interview with a significant realisation: prioritising her happiness and the trust of those close to her ultimately matters more than dealing with wild assumptions and gossip. “So now I really don’t care,” she declared confidently, signalling her commitment to living authentically and valuing deeper connections over mere public perceptions. As they forge ahead in their respective careers, the friendship between King and Winfrey stands as a testament to loyalty, acceptance, and the enduring power of close personal ties.