Oprah Winfrey reveals secrets behind iconic 2004 car giveaway

Oprah Winfrey has shared new details regarding her iconic 2004 television moment where she gifted cars to her entire studio audience. During the season 19 premiere of ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’ on September 13, 2004, Winfrey misled the audience into believing only 12 Pontiac G6s were being distributed.

After 11 cars were awarded, Winfrey distributed gift boxes, claiming only one contained the key to the final vehicle. However, every box actually contained a key, leading to her famous catchphrase, “You get a car!” By the conclusion of the episode, all 276 audience members had received a new vehicle.

The giveaway idea originated from Winfrey’s longtime friend, Gayle King, who received a suggestion from a stranger at an airport regarding vehicle donations. While Pontiac donated over $7 million worth of cars, recipients were responsible for paying up to $7,000 in taxes.