Recent controversies have reignited the debate over Oprah Winfrey’s role in shaping public perception of Michael Jackson. Janet Jackson and other members of the Jackson family have openly accused Oprah of betraying the King of Pop by allegedly manipulating him into discussing personal and damaging topics during a 1993 interview. Many believe Oprah used Michael’s vulnerability to boost her own ratings, rather than portraying him in a fair and balanced light.

In 1993, Oprah conducted a highly publicized interview with Michael Jackson at his Neverland Ranch. The interview was meant to clear up tabloid rumors surrounding him, but it took a different turn when Oprah delved into his physical appearance, personal life, and relationships. She pressed him about cosmetic surgery, questioned his vitiligo diagnosis, and even inquired about his romantic life and sexuality. Many of Michael’s fans believe she deliberately framed her questions in a way that made him appear suspicious or deceptive.

Just months after the interview, in mid-1993, the first allegations of child abuse against Michael surfaced, forever tarnishing his legacy. Many now speculate that Oprah’s intrusive questioning contributed to the negative narrative that followed him for the rest of his life. Years later, after Michael’s passing, Oprah further angered his supporters by publicly endorsing the controversial documentary Leaving Neverland. The documentary featured Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who accused Michael of abuse, despite inconsistencies in their testimonies and previous statements defending him. Oprah hosted a special interview with the accusers, seemingly lending credibility to their claims.

The backlash against Oprah has only grown over the years. Many fans, along with Michael’s family, have called out her perceived double standards. While she aggressively scrutinized Michael, she did not exhibit the same level of criticism toward individuals like Harvey Weinstein, whom she once associated with. Jermaine Jackson, Michael’s older brother, criticized Oprah and the media for pushing narratives that ignored evidence proving Michael’s innocence.

Brandy Jackson, Michael’s niece, also expressed disappointment, recalling how the family had allowed Oprah into their lives, only to feel betrayed later. Taj Jackson, Michael’s nephew, accused Oprah of prioritizing ratings over integrity, calling her actions the “ultimate betrayal.”

With Oprah facing growing criticism, many believe she owes the Jackson family an apology for her role in shaping damaging perceptions about Michael. However, whether she will ever acknowledge their grievances remains to be seen. The controversy continues to spark debate among fans, with some arguing that Oprah was simply doing her job as a journalist, while others see her actions as a calculated attempt to undermine Michael’s career and legacy.

As discussions about media responsibility and fairness persist, the Jackson family remains firm in their belief that Michael was wronged. The question remains: will Oprah ever publicly address these accusations, or will the controversy surrounding her treatment of Michael Jackson continue to fuel public outrage?