Oprah Winfrey, the world’s wealthiest Black woman, will investigate artificial intelligence (AI) in her latest television special. The presentation, titled “AI and the Future of Us: An Oprah Winfrey Special,” will include in-depth interviews with tech industry leaders such as Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.
The special, created by Winfrey’s Harpo Productions, tries to explain AI to viewers through entertaining debates. Winfrey highlighted her interest in AI, saying, “AI, it may fascinate or scare you, or if you’re like me, it may do both, so let’s take a breath and find out more about it.”
The program will also feature chats with Marques Brownlee, a well-known video developer. Gates will discuss AI’s impact on research, health, and education, as well as its prospective repercussions on the labor market. Altman will outline the principles of artificial intelligence and the ethical obligations of AI CEOs.
Winfrey’s current venture into AI follows her extensive involvement with important societal issues. Her former show, “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” broadcast from 1986 to 2011, and covered a wide range of topics, including health and high-profile judicial cases like the O.J. Simpson trial.
After stepping down from the WeightWatchers board, Winfrey continues to be a prominent presence, producing “An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame, and the Weight Loss Revolution,” which explores her personal weight loss journey and obesity challenges in America.
Forbes reports that Winfrey’s net worth will reach $3 billion in 2024, up $200 million from 2023. This growth is due to the success of her assets, which include Dr. Barbara Sturm’s skincare company and a sizable real estate portfolio.
Earlier this year, she gave her 10% ownership in WeightWatchers to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. She owns 2,130 acres of land in Hawaii, ranking among the state’s top billionaire landowners.
Winfrey’s investigation into AI demonstrates her enduring influence and commitment to solving critical concerns shaping the future. “AI and the Future of Us: An Oprah Winfrey Special” will show on September 12 at 8 p.m. ET, with streaming available on Hulu the next day.