Oprah

26 May 2011 - One of the most-watched programmes in US history, The Oprah Winfrey Show, has ended after 25 years. But the impact of its hostess goes far beyond television. Her first episode, entitled How to Marry the Man/Woman of your Choice, suggested this was to be a daytime show like any other.But some 4,560 episodes later, the likes of Madonna, Beyonce and Tom Hanks have been lining up to appear at her farewell show, which is broadcast on Wednesday. During those 25 years, Winfrey has become a household name, a cultural phenomenon and one of the richest people on the planet.As she signs off to continue work on her own cable channel, her ability to get the newsworthy guests appears undiminished. This month, President Obama talked about why he felt the need to publicly produce his own birth certificate. And Sarah Ferguson spoke about not being invited to the royal wedding. The recording of one of Oprah Winfrey's final shows at the United Center in Chicago became a night filled with tears, appreciation and A-list celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Will Smith and Madonna. Many will Oprah - but we have probably not heard the last of her.