Oprah Winfrey has spoken out after facing backlash over allegations that she refused to allow Hawaiian residents to use a private road on her property while fleeing a tsunami threat. The claim sparked outrage on social media, but the media mogul has now issued a response to clarify the situation and defend her actions.
The Allegation Sparks Online Outrage
The controversy began when a post on social media alleged that Winfrey had denied access to a road that cuts through her land in Maui. The private road was reportedly a faster evacuation route for residents trying to escape a tsunami warning, which followed a powerful earthquake near Hawaii. The post quickly went viral, with many people criticizing Oprah for prioritizing her privacy and property rights over public safety. Some accused her of being disconnected from the local community and only stepping in when it served her image.
Oprah’s Team Issues a Statement
In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for Oprah Winfrey released a statement denying the claims and offering a different version of events. According to the statement, Oprah has never denied access to the road in emergencies, and the recent tsunami warning was no exception. The spokesperson explained: “Ms. Winfrey has always cooperated with local officials and agencies during times of crisis. The road is gated due to security reasons, but authorities have the means to open it when needed. No requests for access were made or denied during this particular event.”
A History of Philanthropy in Maui
Supporters of Winfrey were quick to highlight her long-standing involvement in Maui’s community. Oprah owns over 1,000 acres of land on the island and has often used her resources to support local causes, especially during times of disaster. Following the devastating wildfires in Maui in 2023, she was one of the first high-profile figures to provide direct aid to victims. She also co-launched the “People’s Fund of Maui” alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, contributing millions in personal donations. Critics, however, argue that no amount of philanthropy justifies restricting emergency routes, especially during potential natural disasters.
Tsunami Warning Lifted, But Debate Continues
The tsunami warning, which stemmed from a magnitude 7.5 earthquake near Alaska, was eventually lifted without major incident. However, the controversy surrounding Oprah’s private road has reignited debates about land ownership, public safety, and celebrity responsibility in Hawaii. Many Hawaiians have long expressed frustration with wealthy outsiders purchasing large sections of land and creating gated areas that feel off-limits to locals—even during emergencies. This latest incident, true or not, tapped into those deeper tensions.
Oprah Calls for Understanding, Not Division
In her final remarks, Oprah addressed the public directly, urging people to “focus on facts rather than assumptions” and to come together during times of crisis. She emphasized that she remains committed to the people of Maui and is always willing to help in any way possible.
“I’ve always opened my heart—and when needed, my gates—to this community,” she said. “Let’s not allow misinformation to divide us when we need unity the most.”
