Jason Momoa has joined the ranks of those criticizing Oprah Winfrey, labeling her rise to fame as “scary” and accusing her of having a duplicitous nature. Momoa’s sentiments reflect a growing chorus of voices in the entertainment industry that question Winfrey’s public persona versus her behind-the-scenes actions.

Winfrey, a household name known for her talk show, television production, acting, and more, has recently faced allegations from several figures, including Momoa. Critics accuse her of career interference, unfair staff treatment, and a general lack of transparency. Momoa and others claim that Winfrey’s actions have often been self-serving, prioritizing her success over the welfare of her community and peers.

A key point of contention is Winfrey’s track record with her talk show guests. Over the years, she has featured a variety of individuals, from self-proclaimed miracle workers to outright criminals, under the guise of shedding light on controversial topics. However, many argue that her true motivation was boosting ratings. One infamous example is John of God, a spiritual healer who was later convicted of multiple serious crimes, including sexual assault. Despite his criminal background, Winfrey gave him a platform, raising questions about her judgment and priorities.

Moreover, Winfrey’s handling of personal stories from other celebrities has drawn significant backlash. Mo’Nique, an actress and comedian, has been particularly vocal about her negative experiences with Winfrey. Mo’Nique accused Winfrey of blindsiding her by inviting her convicted brother, who had assaulted her, and their unsupportive parents onto her show. This move, Mo’Nique claims, was a blatant attempt to exploit her trauma for viewership. Furthermore, Mo’Nique alleges that Winfrey played a role in blackballing her from Hollywood and even took roles intended for her, such as in the movie “The Butler.”

Mo’Nique has also called out Winfrey for her treatment of Michael Jackson. After Jackson’s death, Winfrey provided a platform for his accusers, which many, including Mo’Nique, saw as a betrayal. This was especially controversial given that Jackson had previously granted Winfrey a high-profile interview that significantly boosted her show’s reach. Critics argue that Winfrey’s decision to highlight Jackson’s accusers while ignoring his acquittals was unfair, particularly when contrasted with her silence regarding her friend Harvey Weinstein’s victims.

Weinstein, a once-prominent filmmaker, became infamous for his sexual misconduct, which sparked the #MeToo movement. Despite his crimes, Winfrey maintained a notable silence regarding his victims, further fueling accusations of hypocrisy. While she has claimed a responsibility to shed light on patterns of abuse, her selective advocacy has been criticized as inconsistent and self-serving.

Momoa’s comments add to the scrutiny of Winfrey’s legacy, challenging the widely accepted image of her as a universally positive force in media. His and others’ criticisms underscore the complex dynamics of power in Hollywood and the potential costs of fame. As more voices emerge, the narrative around Winfrey’s rise becomes increasingly nuanced, prompting a reevaluation of her impact and the ethical implications of her career decisions.