In a heartwarming display of friendship, Oprah Winfrey recently orchestrated a surprise birthday celebration for her best friend, Gayle King, who is set to turn 70 on Dec. 28. The event was a testament to their enduring bond, having been friends for over 50 years. Winfrey’s meticulous planning ensured that King had no inkling of the festivities that awaited her, making the surprise all the more delightful.
A surprise to remember for Gayle
On Saturday, Winfrey took to Instagram to share a video capturing the moment she and King entered the surprise party. The joyous atmosphere was palpable as guests erupted in cheers, shouting “Surprise!” King, visibly shocked, stepped back in disbelief, even dropping her clutch purse in the process. The moment was not only a celebration of King’s milestone birthday but also a reflection of the deep affection and camaraderie shared between the two icons.
“My bestie of 50 years is turning 70 so we gathered everyone that loved her to celebrate,” Winfrey wrote in the caption accompanying the video. She humorously added, “Hard thing to surprise her, O the stories we have made up, the lies we have told to keep this a secret.” The heartfelt sentiment resonated with fans, showcasing the lengths Winfrey went to ensure King felt cherished on her special day.
Star-studded guest list
The surprise party was not just an intimate gathering; it featured a star-studded guest list that included notable personalities like Robert De Niro and Tina Knowles. The celebration was filled with laughter, joy, and a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday,” creating memories that King will undoubtedly treasure.
Reflecting on milestones
While King’s 70th birthday is just around the corner, Winfrey celebrated her own 70th birthday earlier this year on Jan. 29. At that time, she shared a video of herself running on the beach, emphasizing her commitment to health and wellness. “Celebrating 70 with a run on the beach. #healthisthebestgift. Thank you for all the birthday love,” she captioned the post, which featured the words, “This is 70!” over the clip.
In a touching gesture, King also honored Winfrey on her birthday, showcasing their close-knit friendship. She shared a video of Winfrey reading a picture book to her grandson, Luca, highlighting Winfrey’s nurturing side. “Happy to say at 70 @oprah is still a very good reader!” King wrote, expressing her admiration for her best friend.
Celebrating life and friendship
As both women navigate their 70s, they continue to inspire others through their friendship and achievements. King, in her birthday post, revealed that Winfrey preferred a quiet celebration for her own birthday, stating, “No gifts, no parties, no surprises!” Instead, Winfrey wished to enjoy a peaceful evening by the fire with a good book, savoring the simple pleasures of life.
King concluded her heartfelt message with a warm “Happy birthday Oprah!!” showcasing the mutual respect and love they share. Their friendship serves as a beacon of positivity, reminding us all of the importance of celebrating the people we cherish.
