Oprah Winfrey has officially come into her OWN as a network mogul. The 24-7 lifestyle cable channel known as the "Oprah Winfrey Network," or OWN for short, made its debut at noon on New Year's Day. The network now occupies the channel assignment formerly known as Discovery Health. First-day programming included past interviews with some of Oprah's favorite guests and sneak previews of select OWN shows. Full programs are scheduled to begin today. The network's series and specials will cover topics ranging from health and finances to relationships and personal enrichment with Oprah-endorsed stars such as Dr. Oz, Rachel Ray, Dr. Phil and Suze Orman.
Viewers can also expect a series of reality shows with celebrities like country music star Shania Twain and the former Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, as well as a biography series called "Master Class." Oprah herself has signed on to have at least 70 hours of on-air time a year. That's expected draw diehard Oprah fans once she stops taping new episodes of her longrunning syndicated "Oprah Winfrey Show" in May 2011.
