More Producers' Favorite Moments

Nelson Mandela

No one at Harpo will ever forget the day that living legend Nelson Mandela visited the studio. Katy remembers his remarkable presence: "Royal and dignified...it was just extraordinary. He was also really humble—we sat down and started telling him about the show. He said, 'What is the subject of this show?'"

"You are the subject, Mr. Mandela," Oprah replied. "I hope you came to talk about yourself!"

For this very special guest, Harpo relaxed its rule about employees talking to celebrities. The whole building came out to see Mr. Mandela, and he shook hands with every staffer.