Oprah Winfrey Becomes Honorary Oscar Award Recipient

People magazine reports that talk show giant Oprah Winfrey is the recipient of an honorary Oscar Award.  The Academy of Motion Picture's Arts & Science's bestowed the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award to Winfrey in recognition of her outstanding philanthropic efforts.

Upon accepting the award, Windfrey marveled, "I never imagined receiving an Oscar, especially for doing what is part of my calling, part of my being. "If you are not a former colored girl born in Mississippi in 1954, it is impossible for you to know what this journey has meant."

In 1985, Windfrey received an Oscar nomination for her performance in the film, 'The Color Purple'. She has also produced the successful films 'Beloved' and 'Precious'. 

Among the luminaries at the event to honor Winfrey were long time friends Tyler Perry, Sidney Poitier, Gayle King, John Travolta and Maria Shriver.

The third annual Governor's Awards was held at the Grand Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland.  In addition to Winfrey's honor, awards were given out to stage and film legend James Earl Jones and makeup artist Dick Smith, who is most noted for his impressive work in the films The Exorcist and The Godfather.

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