OPRAH WINFREY NAMED "36TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS" HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE

Ceremony to Broadcast on March 25th at 8:00 p.m. on FOX

LOS ANGELES (January 19, 2005) --- Oprah Winfrey will be inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, announced NAACP Image Awards Executive Producer, Vicangelo Bulluck. The prestigious Hall of Fame Award will be presented during the March 19th taping of the 36th NAACP Image Awards in Los Angeles. The awards ceremony will broadcast on Friday, March 25th (8:00 � 10:00 pm ET/PT) on FOX.

Image Awards Chairperson, Clayola Brown noted that, "Oprah Winfrey is an extraordinary woman whose work has inspired and motivated people of all races and cultures. We cannot fully express what an honor it is that she is joining us so we can celebrate her remarkable life and accomplishments."

Julian Bond, Chairman, National NAACP Board of Directors, said: "Oprah Winfrey has set the standard for achievement - as a television icon, actress, producer, broadcast pioneer and successful entrepreneur - she is the model for others. We are proud to salute her."

The Hall of Fame Award is bestowed on an individual who is a pioneer in their respective field and whose influence will shape the profession for generations to come. This individual is recognized for their impact nationally and internationally, and for a career which exemplifies high artistic achievement, professionalism, and public service.

Through the power of media, Oprah Winfrey has created an unparalleled connection with people around the world. As supervising producer and host of the top-rated, award-winning "The Oprah Winfrey Show," she has entertained enlightened and uplifted millions of viewers for the past two decades. Her commitment to use her life to make a difference in the lives of others has extended beyond the realm of television into philanthropy, education, publishing and film. Together Oprah's influence and generosity have established her as one of the most respected and admired public figures today.

Founded in 1909, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization. Its half-million adult and youth members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities and monitor equal opportunity in the public and private sectors.

For a detailed biography on Oprah Winfrey, please visit www.oprah.com. For more information on the NAACP and the NAACP Image Awards visit www.naacpimageawards.net.