Oprah Winfrey Says She's 'So Proud' of Meghan Markle (Exclusive)
Oprah Winfrey is a true friend to Meghan Markle, and has nothing but love for the mom-to-be.
As Markle and Prince Harry prepare to welcome their first child together, the 37-year-old expectant mom has taken a lot of heat from haters for some of the choices they've made that seemingly violate so-called "royal protocol," including where she's going to deliver and their travel plans after the baby is born.
Winfrey spoke with ET's Nischelle Turner at the The Hollywood Reporter's inaugural Empowerment in Entertainment Gala, and she opened up about her support for the Duchess of Sussex and her bold, tradition-bucking choices.
"Oh my God! I'm so proud of her decisions," Winfrey marveled. "To be able to stand up and say this is what I really want for my baby and my family and now I'm going to do it a different way when it's been done that way for a thousand years? I'm just so proud of her."
The beloved TV personality -- who was honored with the inaugural Empowerment Award at THR's star-studded gala, and appeared on the cover of the publication's latest "Empowerment Issue" -- said she's really impressed with Markle's boldness and her willingness to "stand [up for] what works for her and Harry, and what is the truth for them, how they're going to raise their baby."
"I think it does a lot for all the women who are trying to keep up [with the pressure put on new moms]," Winfrey added, referring to the world's seeming obsession with mothers loosing their baby weight and presenting themselves in a way that's pleasing to others instead of prioritizing their own physical and mental health.
Addressing Markle's decision to not pose for photos immediately after their baby is born -- which Kensington Palace officials confirmed earlier this month -- Winfrey says she completely understands and respects that choice.
"Who is ready to walk out and stand before the world and put that face on, you know, a day after you've had a baby?" Winfrey shared. "So I think for her and him -- I'm sure it was a mutual decision for the two of them -- I think it's a great thing."
"And truthfully, it ain't nobody else's business! That's really the truth," added Winfrey.
The famed journalist has long stood up for Markle in the face of criticism. Sitting down with her best friend, Gayle King, on CBS This Morning earlier this month, Winfrey declared, "I think she’s being portrayed unfairly."
"I feel that if people really knew her they would know that she is not only everything we perceive of her, in being graceful and dynamic in holding that position, but she just has a wonderful, warm, giving, loving heart," Oprah shared. "I think it’s very unfair."
Watch the video below to hear more.
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