Following Oprah Winfrey’s hospitalization earlier this week, her friend Gayle King is finally discussing what transpired. Oprah did not make her usual appearance to present her book pick during the most recent broadcast of Oprah’s Book Club on CBS.
Instead, Gayle King explained Oprah’s absence to author David Wroblewski, who was present in the studio. “I’m glad you’re here, and I apologize that Oprah can’t be,” Gayle remarked. “She declared yesterday that she would hold a rally. She was sick from head to toe with a severe case of stomach flu.”
As Gayle King revealed more details, her co-hosts Nate Burleson and Tony Dokoupil reacted audibly.
“I won’t go into too much detail,” Gayle continued. “However, dehydration forced her to the hospital, where she required an IV. Although it was serious, she is now okay. She will be alright.”
Realizing she had shared a lot, Gayle quickly shifted the topic to how Oprah would have preferred to be present in person to honor the author.
Nervously, Gayle King apologized, hoping that sharing those details wouldn’t upset Oprah. She wanted everyone to know how much Oprah valued being present, even if she was ill and unable to do so. Gayle assured everyone that they would make up for her absence.
Following Gayle’s mention of Oprah’s health, Oprah’s representative explained on Oprah Daily’s Instagram that Oprah was unable to appear on CBS Mornings to reveal her next book club selection. Oprah was suffering from a stomach ailment, and Gayle, being a close friend, took over to deliver the news. Following her doctor’s advice and receiving an IV for dehydration, Oprah recovered. Everyone hoped for her swift recovery.
Oprah and her team released an official statement, stating, “Ms. Winfrey is recuperating following a stomach virus and receiving an IV for dehydration as prescribed by her physician. She is getting more rest and improving every day.”
In a video chat with Gayle King later on Tuesday, Oprah clarified that she visited an urgent care facility for fluids rather than being admitted to the hospital. “I was quite dehydrated,” Oprah explained. “My mouth felt dry, and I was unable to drink enough water to stay hydrated, so that’s why I went to the emergency room.”
When asked about her health, Oprah responded, “I’m not completely better yet, but I’m getting there.” She explained that her recent illness prevented her from flying, which is why she was unable to appear on CBS Mornings. Oprah went to the hospital for an IV drip because she became extremely dehydrated due to a gastrointestinal bug, as Gayle King stated in her post.
“I thought I clarified that, but then I noticed headlines stating that Oprah was admitted to the hospital. (She wasn’t.) And many people called to check on Oprah,” King remarked. “She is, in fact, fine! And let’s hear her say it directly.”
The good news is that Oprah is back to normal! Share this to reassure any Oprah fans who may have been concerned about her.
