For years I have watched in amazement as Oprah performed this role, endorsing book after book, product after product. Sometimes I have enjoyed the items she recommends but most times the gifts to in-studio audiences seem to me force-fed consumerism.
Today, I am convinced that her reign must be checked and her judgment, questioned. How do you go from exploring factory farm conditions to SHILLING KFC!?!?!? I have to hand it to KFC: you’ve succeeded in raising my ire at a rate that has outpaced the chemical and seed companies this spring.
Chickens at a Factory Farm in KFC's Supply Chain
Not that Oprah’s error needs further comment, but I reiterate my prior criticism of KFC’s marketing: that it offers a product to families at-risk of diet related disease, none more so than the African-American community. After years of publicly battling her weight, which much of the country has observed and I would bet, at least inwardly, cheered her on, Oprah has imploded into a common sandwichboard.
Q scores aside, Oprah weilds more influence over the average family than a pastor, a local government official or a physician, most likely. What doctors are still not talking to patients about in this country is food. Sure, they might say, “You know you need to watch your weight”, but rarely are specific foods and eating habits recommended.
Civil Eats has a good overview of the imbroglio, one of the most spectacular PR disasters I have seen in a long time. Note the last paragraph in which a suggestion is offered as to what Oprah ought to have done to weild her power over KFC and to turn the tables.
