As Gayle King became part of history aboard Blue Origin’s all-female spaceflight, no one felt the moment more deeply than her best friend of nearly 50 years, Oprah Winfrey. The pair have shared their love and support for each other throughout their careers, and this time the billionaire was paying close attention to her friend’s journey.
Standing on the ground in Texas alongside Gayle’s children, Kirby and Will Bumpus, Oprah was visibly emotional as she watched her longtime friend ascend into space. The media personality was seen wearing yellow, Gayle’s favorite color, as a tribute to her friend.
Oprah fought back tears as the rocket lifted off, even removing her sunglasses to quietly wipe her face. She turned away from the camera, overcome with emotion, and later shared her thoughts about the emotional moment.
© Blue Origin“I’ve never been more proud of my friend,” Oprah said during the Blue Origin livestream. “This is bigger than just going to space. For her, anytime we’re on a flight she’s in somebody’s lap if there’s the slightest bit of turbulence.”
© Blue OriginGayle joined fellow passengers Katy Perry, Lauren Sánchez, former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen, and film producer Kerianne Flynn on Blue Origin’s historic 11-minute journey.
© Blue OriginOprah described the launch as a moment of personal transformation for her best friend — and a reminder of what it means to live fully. “This is overcoming a wall of fear, a barrier. I think it’s going to be cathartic in so many ways,” she added.
© Carmen ValdesOprah also gave insight into why she encouraged her friend to embark on the space journey. “I think life is about continuing to grow into the best of yourself and the fullest expression of yourself,” Oprah explained. “I think this is one of the most fullest expressions you can possibly have.”
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