Violence became increasingly common on some of the talks, Springer in particular. One young American man was quoted as sayingI watch it for the fights, you know there is always gonna be a fight on Jerry? . .
In the early 21st Century, television talk shows continue to screen on Australian TVs, although it can be said that we only get a tiny proportion of what is out there. Oprah, Rikki Lake, and Jerry Springer can be seen on free-to-air television during the day, while other less popular American talkshows, such as Leeza, The View, and Forgive or Forget are screened on Foxtel.
The Changing Face of Oprah Winfrey.
When Oprah started The Oprah Winfrey Show in the 1980s, it was as trashy as all the rest. She covered such topics asI don't Know the Father of My Child? andDouble Lives?. However, in recent years Oprah has had a face lift and totally changed her image. Her website shows evidence of this. Featuring headings such asMind and Body?,Your Spirit?,Lifestyle Makeovers? andOprah's Angel Network?, it is far removed from the place where she started. The show itself has received 34 Emmys and Oprah has become an icon. Author Fran Lebowitz describes her as having an amazing charismatic appeal and says thatOprah is probably the greatest media influence on the adult populartion - she is almost a religion? A trash talk show it is no more. Oprah now caters for a totally different viewing audience. Classy sets, sophisticated clothing and serious issues addressed all contribute to its huge popularity in the upper middle-class women demographic. .
Oprah is often praised for her discussion of controversial issues, such as abortion, homosexuality and child abuse, in a public forum with tact and responsibility. Also, Oprah's celebrity interview segments are much sought after. In Australia, these shows are frequently shown at prime time and involve Oprah talking with celebrities, many of whom are her friends, and getting the latest gossip regarding their recent movies, marriage breakups and tabloid rumours.