Rose McGowan Calls Oprah Winfrey ‘Fake,’ TV Star’s Fans React

Rose McGowan tweeted an image of Oprah Winfrey kissing Harvey Weinstein on the cheek at the 2014 Critics’ Choice Movie Awards on Aug 29. Accompanying the image, McGowan added the caption: “I am glad more are seeing the ugly truth of @Oprah. I wish she were real, but she isn’t. From being pals with Weinstein to abandoning & destroying Russell Simmon’s victims, she is about supporting a sick power structure for personal gain, she is as fake as they come. #lizard.” 

Winfrey’s friendship with Weinstein has been called into question due to charges against Weinstein for rape and sexual assault. McGowan was one of the over 60 women who accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct, although the case against him did not include McGowan’s accusations. Weinstein was convicted and began his 23-year sentence in 2020. 

Winfrey also dropped a documentary on the stories of Simmon’s victims and accusers, citing creative differences. 

McGowan has been defending herself on Twitter as Winfrey’s fans joined in on the debate.  

She has also directed the conversation toward a discussion of wealth and privilege, accusing news outlets of supporting Winfrey in acts of top 1% class solidarity.