Oprah Winfrey pays tribute to Tina Turner: 'She encouraged a part of me I didn’t know existed'
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Oprah Winfrey honored one of her favorite artists and friend, Tina Turner, following her death.
The TV personality shared photos of her and Tina through the years on social media, and looked back on their friendship.
“I started out as a fan of Tina Turner, then a full-on groupie, following her from show to show around the country, and then, eventually, we became real friends," Oprah said.
“She is our forever goddess of rock ‘n’ roll who contained a magnitude of inner strength that grew throughout her life,” she added. “She was a role model not only for me but for the world. She encouraged a part of me I didn’t know existed.”
Oprah then talked about Tina’s strength, especially after she left an abusive relationship.
“Once she claimed her freedom from years of domestic abuse, her life became a clarion call for triumph,” Oprah said. “I’m grateful for her courage, for showing us what victory looks like wearing Manolo’s and a leather miniskirt.”
“She once shared with me that when her time came to leave this earth, she would not be afraid, but excited and curious. Because she had learned how to LIVE surrounded by her beloved husband, Erwin, and friends,” she added.
To end her tribute, Oprah gave a touching statement.
“I am a better woman, a better human, because her life touched mine. She was indeed simply the best.”
Tina, the queen of rock ‘n roll, died peacefully after a long illness in her home in Küsnacht near Zurich, Switzerland. She was 83.
She is best known for the songs “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” “River Deep, Mountain High,” and “Proud Mary,” among many others.
—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News