Chief Executive, Oprah Winfrey Network

Social crusader Winfrey drives a multi-media business around her celebrity. The Montecito-based Winfrey is an investor in plant-based milk Oatly that went public a year ago, slimming undergarment apparel Spanx and other emerging businesses seeking capital with a celebrity halo. Winfrey boosted Weight Watchers fortunes when first becoming a brand ambassador in 2015. Winfrey’s TV interview with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry a year ago created a global sensation. OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, which is majority owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, continues to chug along after launch in 2011.

YEARS ON THE LA500: 7