One of the most popular US talk-shows of all time, “The Oprah Winfrey Show” will film at least two episodes in Australia in December.
The Australian filming will be the first time in its 25 year history that “The Oprah Winfrey Show” will have been filmed with its US audience outside North America.
Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson AM MP outlined the substantial benefits for Australia’s tourism industry that global exposure on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” will deliver.
“The Oprah Winfrey Show” has a weekly US following of 40 million viewers and is broadcast in 145 countries,” Minister Ferguson said.
“Tourism Australia’s partnership to bring filming of the program to Australia builds on the There’s nothing like Australia campaign by tapping into audiences around the world and encouraging them to come and explore our country for themselves.
“This partnership will see the show’s host, Oprah Winfrey and 300 of her most loyal viewers journey to some of Australia’s most striking locations during an eight-day, seven-night trip.
“Oprah is a global household name and her star power has the potential to lift Australia’s profile as a premier tourist destination.”
Qantas Airways, Tourism New South Wales, the Sydney Opera House, Tourism Victoria, Tourism Queensland, R.M.Williams and Network 10 have also put their support behind the venture.
Other States and Territories may be given the opportunity to be involved through editorial profiling opportunities.
Tourism Australia Chair, Mr Geoff Dixon said the theme of the Australian visit “Oprah’s Ultimate Australian Adventure” is a perfect fit for taking Australia’s tourism message to the world.
“We know Australia is a dream destination for millions of people and the partnership with The Oprah Winfrey Show is a real opportunity to show how they can make their dream a reality,” Mr Dixon said.
The “Oprah” show cameras will be on hand to capture their journeys around Australia as well as bring everyone together at the steps of the Sydney Opera House – or as it will be known that week the “Oprah House” - for a spectacular show featuring Australian talent and special guests.
Episodes will air first in the US in early 2011 and then roll out to other countries.