Over her prolific 25-year television career, Oprah Winfrey has formed an extremely close friendship with Gayle King that has constantly fueled lesbian romance rumors, which Winfrey adamantly denies. Winfrey became emotional when describing what an incredible, supportive friend King has been. Meanwhile, she has retreated from public view with long-time partner Stedman Graham to avoid media scrutiny, but still praises Graham as her loving, dignified life mate. The article contrasts Winfrey’s deeply private relationship with Graham and her intensely close public friendship with King.