Global media icon Oprah Winfrey has touched down in Australia, showcasing a remarkably relaxed demeanour during a low-key sightseeing outing in Sydney. The visit marks her highly anticipated return to the country for a major speaking tour, her first in over a decade.
A Casual Arrival in the Harbour City
On Wednesday, the 71-year-old television legend was spotted stepping out from her luxurious accommodation at the Four Seasons Sydney in an unexpectedly informal style. Demonstrating a carefree holiday mood, Winfrey chose to go completely barefoot as she walked to a waiting luxury vehicle, carrying a pair of grey sneakers and socks in her hand.
Her chic yet comfortable ensemble featured a brown and white striped top, neatly tucked into cream-coloured drawstring trousers. She accessorised with a matching jacket and a distinctive $350 Akubra Coober Peedy hat, offering a subtle nod to her Australian surroundings. Completing the look were oversized black sunglasses.
An Intimate Tour Down Under
This trip signifies Oprah's first return to Australian shores in 15 years, specifically since her landmark 2010 visit. Her upcoming 'An Evening with Oprah' tour comprises four exclusive 'in conversation' events across the nation's major cities, promising to be one of the year's most prominent speaking engagements.
The tour schedule is as follows:
- It kicks off in Sydney at the TikTok Entertainment Centre on Thursday.
- She then heads to the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on December 6.
- Next is a stop at the Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre on December 8.
- The tour concludes at the Melbourne Convention Centre on December 11.
In a statement, Winfrey expressed her enthusiasm: "I'm beyond excited to return after ten years. The energy, warmth, and spirit I felt from audiences last time stayed with me. This tour is a chance to reconnect, reflect, and be reinspired - together." She is also expected to enjoy a private holiday during her stay.
Echoes of a Blockbuster 2010 Visit
Winfrey's last Australian excursion was a significant cultural event. In 2010, she filmed four episodes of The Oprah Winfrey Show at the Sydney Opera House, which was temporarily rebranded the 'Oprah House' for the occasion.
That legendary tour, which cost an estimated $5 million in taxpayer funding and drew some criticism, brought 300 American fans and created unforgettable moments. These included surprise giveaways, a $250,000 donation to a cancer patient, and a now-infamous incident where actor Hugh Jackman sustained a cut under his eye during a zip-line stunt for a live taping. The episodes were subsequently broadcast in 145 countries, providing immense global exposure for Australian tourism.
As she embarks on this new chapter of connection with Australian audiences, Oprah Winfrey's relaxed Sydney stroll signals the beginning of another memorable visit.
