This one earned a top spot on “Oprah’s Favorite Things” of 2010. Audience members didn’t have to look under their seats for this one, as the gift was presented to them in the form of a giant inflatable cruise ship that was cranked out of a jack-in-the-box, right on stage. Yes, elaborate.
Of course, the actual gift was a real-life seven-day cruise and was called the Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas. The luxury ship boasted a zip-line, ice-skating rink, and a 3-D movie theater.
Mr. Right
Who knew showing lifelong dedication could get you a sack of cash? Brian Fawcett had really lived up to his vows when he found himself taking care of his wife, Allison, all through her struggle with cancer.
On the show, Oprah awarded him by paying off his college debt — all $35, 000 of it. (Thanks to Charles Schwab Investments.) He also got $10, 000 for his personal account, a portfolio consultation, and last but not least — the title of Most Romantic Man, by Oprah herself. Not bad.
Philly Road Trip
This was one of the first of a series of big Oprah trips. In 1994, Oprah surprised her entire studio audience with a trip to Philly! Audiences could not believe it. Until that moment, the Oprah show was a place to talk about feelings. Suddenly it became the talk show haven of grand giveaways. Lady O gave them only a day’s notice before she whisked them all away, just because she loves surprises.
131 audience members were taken to Philadelphia to see the Liberty Bell, climb the famous "Rocky" steps, and of course chow down cheesesteaks.
A Decade of Oprah
The 10th anniversary of the Oprah show went down with a bang. In 1996, she surprised her entire audience with a small trip...to Disney Land. 217 Oprah guests made their way out of the studios, hopped on a plane, and a few hours later, landed in the fantasy world.
Oprah met them at Orlando airport, where they were greeted by her friends Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
Free Rides
Possibly the biggest promotional stunt in TV history, in September 2004, Oprah reached new heights when she set out to treat some folks who were having a tough time getting to work every day. Lady O had initially sought out 11 hopefuls to gift with a brand new Pontiac G6. But there was more.
On handing over the keys, Oprah told the audience that was another key under the lucky 12th person’s seat. Lo and behold, that additional key was under everyone’s seat and 276 members of her studio audience got a brand new Pontiac.