When we think of the richest names in the entertainment industry, Orpah definitely comes to mind. The iconic television show host has won our hearts with her endearing success story, and serves as a constant inspiration that you can achieve anything you set your mind to, as long as you keep pushing towards your goals.

When we think of the richest names in the entertainment industry, Orpah definitely comes to mind

Of course, a career as decorated as Oprah’s comes with a huge fortune – being smart about her money and investing wisely obviously worked in the host’s favor but how exactly did she climb the ladder of success? Here’s a look at her incredible career.

1970s

Winfrey was only 19 years old when she was hired as a television host at her local CBS station in Nashville. She quickly learned the ropes after an improvisational style of news reporting became a hit with the audience. Winfrey told people’s personal stories on television and won hearts with her casual hosting style. Her show was such a hit that its ratings topped the CBS channel after 10 years.

Winfrey was only 19 years old when she was hired as a television host

1980s

This decade was historic for the television host after she switched over to ABC for a 30-minute morning special which quickly gained ratings, forcing the network to give Oprah her own licensed rendition called The Oprah Winfrey Show. This move was monumental for the then-32-year-old, making her the first black woman to have her own syndicated TV show.

1990s

In the 90s Winfrey’s career took a serious turn after she steered away from mainstream topics to focus more on issues that plague our society to this day such as racism, child abuse and gender inequality.

Her efforts were recognized by Daytime Emmy Awards where she won several awards. 90s was also the decade when Oprah started several of her own businesses including a programming a company as well as a publication firm.

Oprah's efforts were recognized by Daytime Emmy Awards where she won several awards

2000s

Winfrey’s success streak continued into the 2000s and she quickly found her name among the billionaires of the entertainment industry. In 2011, she bid adieu to her television show and founded her own network by the name of Oprah Winfrey Network, where she serves as the CEO.

Furthermore, she invested in various other businesses as well including Weight Watchers. The television show host owns a 10% stake in the company and is a strong advocate of its subscription plans.