The Oprah Winfrey Network, commonly known as OWN, has been a significant player in cable television since its launch. Many fans of the network often wonder who actually controls this media outlet that bears the name of one of America’s most beloved television personalities.
OWN is operated as a joint venture between Warner Bros. Discovery and Harpo Productions. Warner Bros. Discovery holds majority ownership. Oprah Winfrey initially had a larger stake in the network, but she has sold portions of her ownership over time. This includes a significant 20.5% stake to Discovery (now Warner Bros. Discovery), which further increased their majority position.
Despite no longer being the majority owner, Oprah’s influence remains strong through her Harpo Productions company. This partnership structure has allowed OWN to combine Oprah’s personal brand and content vision with the distribution power and resources of a major media conglomerate.
Key Takeaways
- OWN operates as a joint venture with Warner Bros. Discovery holding the majority stake while Harpo Productions retains partial ownership.
- Oprah Winfrey has gradually reduced her ownership percentage by selling portions to Discovery over the years.
- The network continues to benefit from Oprah’s brand influence despite the ownership structure changes.
Ownership of OWN
The Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) has undergone several ownership changes since its founding, with both Oprah Winfrey and major media companies holding significant stakes in the television channel.
Overview of OWN
OWN launched on January 1, 2011, as a joint venture between Oprah Winfrey’s Harpo Productions and Discovery Communications. The network replaced the Discovery Health Channel and aimed to provide inspirational programming aligned with Winfrey’s brand.
Initially, Discovery Communications provided the majority of the funding for the network’s operations. This arrangement allowed OWN to leverage Discovery’s existing infrastructure and distribution channels.
Today, OWN is operated as a joint venture between Warner Bros. Discovery’s networks division and Harpo Productions. The partnership combines Warner Bros. Discovery’s media expertise with Harpo’s content creation capabilities.
Oprah Winfrey’s Role
Oprah Winfrey serves as the chairwoman and CEO of OWN. As the face of the network, she has played a crucial role in shaping its identity and programming direction.
When the network launched, Winfrey owned 50% of OWN through her company Harpo Productions. However, her ownership stake has changed over time.
In 2017, Winfrey extended her contract with OWN through 2025, demonstrating her long-term commitment to the network. She remains actively involved in major programming decisions and appears in some of the network’s shows.
In December 2020, Winfrey sold 20.5% of her ownership stake to the network’s majority owner, reducing her overall position in the company while maintaining a significant interest.
Stakeholders and Shares
Warner Bros. Discovery (formerly Discovery Communications) now holds the majority ownership of OWN. The company has gradually increased its stake over the years.
In 2017, Discovery Communications increased its ownership stake in OWN, purchasing an additional 24.5% from Harpo Productions for $70 million.
After Oprah’s 2020 sale of an additional 20.5% of her stake, her ownership percentage was significantly reduced. The exact percentage of her current ownership is not publicly disclosed, but she maintains a minority stake.
There have been occasional rumors about potential interest from other media entities like Byron Allen’s Entertainment Studios, though no formal acquisition attempts have been publicly confirmed.
Network Programming and Content
OWN has built its reputation on inspiring, uplifting, and diverse programming that resonates with its target audience. The network features a mix of reality shows, dramas, documentaries, and talk shows that reflect authentic African American experiences and stories.
Original Programming
OWN’s original programming strategy focuses on authentic storytelling and representation. When the network launched in 2011, it initially relied on talk shows and reality programming. As the network evolved, it expanded into scripted dramas that resonated with viewers.
One of OWN’s first major hits was “Queen Sugar,” created by Ava DuVernay. The show tells the story of the Bordelon siblings and their struggle to save their family farm. The show received praise for its thoughtful exploration of complex social issues and stunning cinematography.
“Greenleaf,” created by Craig Wright, became another cornerstone of OWN’s lineup. This drama series follows the Greenleaf family, who run a Memphis megachurch, and explores themes of faith, power, and family secrets.
Partnership with Tyler Perry
Tyler Perry’s collaboration with OWN began in 2012 and has been tremendously successful for both parties. Perry brought his signature style of storytelling to the network with shows that quickly found devoted audiences.
His first two scripted series for OWN, “The Haves and the Have Nots” and “If Loving You Is Wrong,” became instant hits and helped boost the network’s ratings significantly. These shows attracted new viewers to OWN and established it as a destination for compelling drama.
Perry’s content helped stabilize OWN financially during its early years when the network was struggling to find its footing. His prolific output and loyal fan base provided OWN with reliable programming that appealed to its core demographic.
Popular OWN Shows
OWN’s lineup features a diverse array of popular shows that have captivated audiences over the years. Some standout series include:
- “Iyanla: Fix My Life” – A reality series featuring life coach Iyanla Vanzant helping people overcome personal challenges
- “Delilah” – A legal drama about a lawyer who left a prestigious firm to fight for those in need
- “David Makes Man” – A critically acclaimed coming-of-age drama from “Moonlight” writer Tarell Alvin McCraney
- “Love & Marriage: Huntsville” – A reality show following successful African American couples in Alabama
“Super Soul Sunday,” hosted by Oprah herself, brings thoughtful conversations with authors, spiritual leaders, and wellness experts. The show has won multiple Emmy Awards and remains a favorite among viewers seeking inspiration.
Distribution and Accessibility
The Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) is available through multiple platforms, making it accessible to viewers across different devices and service providers. Fans can watch their favorite OWN content through traditional cable services, online streaming platforms, or the dedicated OWN app.
Cable and Satellite Providers
OWN initially launched by taking over the Discovery Health Channel distribution platform in 2009. Today, the network maintains strong partnerships with major cable and satellite providers across the United States.
Viewers can access OWN through popular cable services like Comcast, Charter Spectrum, and Cox Communications. In fact, OWN expanded its reach when it launched on Cox Communications in Northern Virginia, increasing its audience base.
Satellite providers including DISH Network and DirecTV also carry OWN in their channel lineups. For those with Verizon FiOS or other fiber optic television services, OWN is typically included in standard or premium packages.
Channel numbers vary by location and provider, so viewers should check their local listings for the exact channel position.
Online Streaming Services
As digital distribution has grown, OWN has expanded beyond traditional cable television to reach cord-cutters and digital-first viewers.
Several streaming platforms now include OWN content in their offerings:
- YouTube TV
- Hulu + Live TV
- fuboTV
- Philo
- Discovery+
These services allow viewers to watch OWN without a traditional cable or satellite subscription. Some platforms offer both live streaming of the channel and on-demand access to previously aired content.
Many streaming services also provide DVR functionality, letting viewers record their favorite OWN programs to watch later at their convenience.
Watch OWN App
The Watch OWN app provides the most direct way to enjoy OWN programming on mobile devices and smart TVs.
Available for iOS and Android devices, the app offers:
- Full episodes of popular OWN shows
- Live streaming of the network
- Exclusive behind-the-scenes content
- Previews of upcoming programs
To access full episodes and live streams, users must sign in with their participating TV provider credentials. The app is free to download, though watching complete content requires a subscription to a cable or satellite service that includes OWN.
The app also features user-friendly navigation, allowing fans to browse by show, category, or recently added content.
Business Expansion and Diversification
The OWN Network has undergone significant transformation through strategic acquisitions and digital innovation. These moves have helped the network broaden its reach and diversify its content offerings beyond traditional television programming.
Acquisitions by Byron Allen
Byron Allen, a media mogul and founder of Entertainment Studios, has made impressive moves in the media landscape, though not directly related to OWN Network ownership. His company has acquired several television networks to build a diverse media portfolio.
In 2018, Allen made headlines when he purchased The Weather Channel for approximately $300 million. This bold acquisition helped establish his position as a significant player in the media industry.
Entertainment Studios also owns TheGrio, a digital platform focused on news and entertainment for African American audiences. This acquisition aligns with Allen’s strategy to create content for diverse viewership.
Allen’s company has expanded into film distribution through Entertainment Studios Motion Pictures and Freestyle Digital Media, releasing independent films to various platforms.
Digital and Multimedia Outreach
OWN Network has embraced digital diversification strategies to stay competitive in the evolving media landscape. The network developed streaming options to reach viewers beyond traditional cable subscriptions.
OWN’s ownership structure has evolved alongside its digital expansion. In 2017, Discovery Communications increased its stake in the network by acquiring an additional 24.5% from Harpo, Inc. for $70 million.
The network launched digital content initiatives including web series, podcasts, and social media programming. These formats allow OWN to connect with younger viewers who consume media primarily through digital channels.
Additional Services and Features
The OWN Network offers several services beyond traditional television programming to connect with its audience. These services focus on community building and providing valuable content that aligns with Oprah Winfrey’s vision for personal growth and empowerment.
Consumer Engagement
OWN has developed multiple platforms to interact with viewers beyond cable television. The network maintains an active social media presence across Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Fans can discuss shows and receive updates.
OWN’s official website provides additional content including behind-the-scenes footage, exclusive interviews, and special features not available on the television channel.
The OWN app allows subscribers to stream content on mobile devices and smart TVs. This app gives viewers access to OWN Originals and other network programming on demand.
Virtual events and live-streamed conversations with show creators and cast members create direct connections between the network and its audience. These interactive experiences help build a loyal community around OWN programming.
Educational and Inspirational Content
OWN produces shows designed to inspire personal growth and development. The network features self-help experts, life coaches, and spiritual leaders who provide practical advice for viewers.
Book clubs and reading initiatives encourage literacy and thoughtful discussion. Oprah’s Book Club selections often appear in OWN programming, creating a multimedia approach to literature appreciation.
Masterclass-style segments feature experts teaching skills in areas like financial literacy and healthy cooking. They also cover relationship building and career development.
Documentaries highlight social issues and diverse communities to educate and raise awareness. These programs align with the Oprah Winfrey Network’s mission to inform and inspire.
Wellness content focuses on physical and mental health, providing viewers with tools for self-improvement. This programming reflects Oprah’s personal interest in holistic wellbeing.
