Gayle King Says Oprah Romance Rumors Are False, Reflects on 50-Year Friendship

Gayle King says rumors that she and Oprah Winfrey are romantically involved are false and have bothered her for years.

Speaking on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, King said speculation about their relationship intensified after her divorce, when tabloids claimed she and Winfrey were “secretly gay.” King said that was untrue and added, “If we were gay, we would tell you.”

King recalled asking Winfrey to publicly address the rumors years ago, saying the gossip made dating difficult for her. Winfrey chose not to respond publicly at the time.

Now, King says she no longer lets the rumors affect her. She said social media can amplify negativity, but she focuses on the opinions of people she trusts rather than online commentary.

King also described her friendship with Winfrey as one of the most important relationships in her life. The two have been friends for 50 years and may celebrate the milestone with a party honoring close friendships.

Winfrey, who has been in a long-term relationship with Stedman Graham for decades, has previously called King “the friend that everyone deserves.”