Oprah, celebrity and formations of self

Wilson, Sherryl

Abstract

Examining the phenomenon of the Oprah Winfrey Show within the context of contemporary American culture, the book considers the reasons for the popularity of this television programme. It explores Winfrey's celebrity persona, the ways in which individuals construct selfhood, and the role of confession. Drawing on cultural criticism and a black feminist perspective, the book demonstrates the range of conflicting discourses that are manifest on the show and combine to produce something that is carnivalesque in form.

Citation

Wilson, S. (2003). Oprah, celebrity and formations of self. Palgrave Macmillan

• Book Type: Authored Book
• Publication Date: Nov 1, 2003
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Series Title: Social and Cultural Studies Collection 2003-2004
• ISBN: 978-1403916815
• Keywords: Oprah Winfrey, TV talk show, American culture, confession
• Publisher URL: http://www.palgraveconnect.com/pc/doifinder/10.1057/9780230505360
• Additional Information: Additional Information : 'Wilson, Sherryl. Introduction, 2003 Palgrave Macmillan reproduced with permission of Palgrave Macmillan'. This extract is taken from the author's original manuscript and has not been edited. The definitive version of this piece may be found in Oprah, Celebrity and Formations of Self by Sherryl Wilson which can be purchased from www.palgrave.com.