Oprah Winfrey Hospitalized With Stomach Virus, Misses CBS Appearance
Oprah Winfrey was recently hospitalized due to a severe stomach virus. The 70-year-old was notably absent from her scheduled appearance on CBS Mornings on June 11, where she was set to reveal her latest book club pick. During the broadcast, Gayle King addressed Oprah’s absence, providing an update on her condition.
“She had some kind of stomach thing — stomach flu — stuff was coming out of both ends. I won’t get too graphic. Needless to say, she ended up in the hospital, dehydrated, and had to get an IV. It was a very serious thing,” Gayle explained
She further noted that despite Oprah’s efforts to rally, she ultimately needed to rest.
“She will be okay. I hope she’s not mad at me for sharing that detail. But I wanted to make it clear that it mattered to her and that it really bothered her that she couldn’t be here for you today,” Gayle added.
A spokesperson for Oprah confirmed to PEOPLE that she is on the mend.
“Ms. Winfrey is recovering following a stomach virus and received an IV due to dehydration at the recommendation of her doctor. She is resting and feeling better every day,” the spokesperson stated.
The spokesperson did not speak on how long Oprah spent in the hospital or what caused the illness.
Although Oprah couldn’t make her appearance on the show, she took to Instagram to share her excitement about her new book club selection, Familiaris by David Wroblewski.
“Summer is here and I love to settle in with a big book that takes me through the season. So today I’m thrilled to announce that my next @oprahsbookclub selection is Familiaris by @davidw4words!” she wrote.
During the CBS Mornings appearance Oprah missed, Gayle announced David’s prequel novel on behalf of her long-time friend. Mimicking Oprah’s famous dramatic announcement style, Gayle read a statement Oprah had prepared ahead, in which she championed the book as an “extraordinary journey that brilliantly interweaves history, philosophy, adventure and mysticism to explore the meaning of love, friendship and living your life’s true purpose.”
