Ep 2. Season Premiere: Oprah and Whitney Houston---the First Interview

Season 24 episode 2 of The Oprah Winfrey Show is the highly anticipated season premiere featuring Oprah's first interview with a young Whitney Houston. This iconic interview took place in 1986 and marked the start of a long-standing relationship between Winfrey and Houston.

The episode begins with Oprah previewing the highly anticipated interview, stating that Whitney Houston is one of the most talented musicians of our time and that this interview gives viewers a rare glimpse into her personal life. Oprah acknowledges that Houston has been described by some as being unapproachable and guarded, but insists that she's incredibly warm and open during their time together.

The episode starts with Houston sitting down opposite Oprah, both women can be seen wearing their hair in very 80s hairstyles and Houston wears a turtleneck and oversized blazer. Oprah begins by asking Houston how she feels about her recent success, referencing her chart-topping songs and her upcoming debut album. Houston says she's overwhelmed by the response to her music and grateful for the opportunity to share her talent with the world.

The conversation then shifts to Houston's family life, with Oprah asking about her famous mother, Cissy Houston, a Grammy award-winning soul and gospel singer. Houston opens up about the pressure she feels to succeed in the music industry, acknowledging that her mother's success has been a double-edged sword for her. Houston shares that while she's received incredible support from her family, they also expect a lot from her.

Throughout the interview, Oprah and Houston discuss various aspects of the singer's life, including her upbringing in New Jersey, her early experiences in the music industry, and her thoughts on religion. Oprah asks Houston about the rumors swirling around her love life, at which point Houston shares that she's not currently involved with anyone and is instead focused on her music career.

Towards the end of the interview, Houston performs a stirring rendition of her hit song, "How Will I Know", leaving Oprah visibly moved. Following the performance, Oprah and Houston discuss the pressures of fame and the need for self-care in the entertainment industry.

Overall, season 24 episode 2 of The Oprah Winfrey Show is a must-watch for fans of both Oprah Winfrey and Whitney Houston. With Oprah's innate ability to draw out her interviewees, combined with Houston's incredible talent and insights, this interview provides an intimate and revealing look at the life of one of music's most legendary performers.