OPRAH'S BACK FROM SKYPEVILLE

I always watch Oprah's show and I have been watching since she came on the scene in the 80's. I've noticed over the past year that it hasn't been as strong as in the past. Don't get me wrong. Hands down Oprah rocks, her shows changes lives, and opinions and actually helped change the occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Recently there's been shift in focus. It happens. A few years back a new Executive Producer took the reins and it rained stars. They were everywhere, all the time. Real people took a back seat to the Hollywood A List during that period. I imagine (I’m making this part up) that Oprah got tired of it and said, ENOUGH, give me substance; I want to empower and enlighten my audience, enough already with all things that glitter. And even though the show had stellar ratings they made a shift.

She makes these shifts often and without fallout --and there's been one this season. It's obvious someone is trying to save money or try something hip and as a result you see far too many guests via SKYPE instead of in the studio. Big stars appear via SKYPE-- like Owen Wilson and tons of others whose names escape me at the moment. Owen stands out because he was at home with some out of control dog, it looked stupid and he appeared uncomfortable. Hey if I were a celeb and I had the option of sitting at home on camera or flying to Chicago, I'd pick home. But if I waited a lifetime for tickets and was in the audience for a show with a big deal SKYPE guest I would feel incredibly gypped. Everyday can’t be Oprah’s favorite things day…but can’t the guy selling something at least show up in studio? I’m getting off track.

I don't like SKYPE; I like Oprah sitting right next to someone on the couch. I get why they do it. It saves tons of money. Daytime TV audiences are getting smaller, ad money is drying up. It makes sense but I don’t think it makes for great TV.

I love what's been happening over the past couple of weeks. The show's gotten back to what made it great-- Oprah and someone sitting next to her with a compelling story that touches everyone. I NEVER thought I'd watch an entire show with Star Jones but it was riveting and it did plenty to showcase Ms. Jones humanity. And didn't you think Tonya Harding was old news? Me too. Couldn't stop watching it. The McCann’s were riveting & heartbreaking, and I expect that Elizabeth Edwards talking for the first time about her public humiliation will be as well. You don't need window dressing all you need is Oprah and those kinds of guests and it's amazing TV.

PS-- The LIVE Friday shows need work.... but they're getting there. More on that later.