Celebrity interviews have long been a captivating part of pop culture, offering fans an inside look at the personalities and lives of their favorite stars. Over the years, certain interviews have transcended the usual question-and-answer format to deliver moments of unexpected humor, vulnerability, or controversy. These iconic interviews have left lasting impressions on audiences and become significant moments in entertainment history. Let’s take a look at some of the most renowned interview moments that have sparked conversations and defined celebrity culture.
1. Oprah Winfrey’s Interview with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry
One of the most talked-about interviews in recent years, Oprah Winfrey’s exclusive sit-down with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry was nothing short of a global event. Airing in March 2021, the couple opened up about their struggles within the British royal family, touching on topics like mental health, media scrutiny, and accusations of racism.
The moment that truly resonated with audiences was Meghan’s revelation of feeling isolated and dealing with mental health issues during her time as a royal, admitting she had thoughts of self-harm. Additionally, Harry’s candid discussion about his relationship with the royal family, particularly his father, Prince Charles, left many viewers stunned. The interview not only shed light on the challenges they faced but also sparked important conversations about race, mental health, and the pressures of living in the public eye.
2. David Letterman’s Interview with Joaquin Phoenix
In 2009, Joaquin Phoenix appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman in what remains one of the most bewildering and talked-about interviews of all time. Phoenix, who was in character for his mockumentary I’m Still Here, appeared disheveled and distant, answering Letterman’s questions with awkward pauses and vague responses.
The interview, which many viewers initially believed was a genuine breakdown, was later revealed to be part of a performance for the film, where Phoenix portrayed a version of himself leaving Hollywood to pursue a rap career. Letterman’s deadpan humor throughout the interview, combined with Phoenix’s strange behavior, made for an uncomfortable yet memorable TV moment. In 2010, Phoenix returned to the show to apologize and clarify the performance, and the two shared a laugh about the viral moment.
3. Barbara Walters’ Interview with Monica Lewinsky
One of the most famous interviews of the 1990s, Barbara Walters’ interview with Monica Lewinsky gave the former White House intern the chance to speak publicly about her affair with President Bill Clinton. In the 1999 interview, Lewinsky addressed the scandal, her feelings for Clinton, and the intense media attention she had faced in the aftermath.
Lewinsky’s candidness and vulnerability during the interview, particularly her admission of “deep regret,” struck a chord with millions of viewers. The interview drew an audience of over 70 million people, making it one of the most-watched television interviews in history. It remains a defining moment in both Lewinsky’s life and the media’s handling of high-profile scandals.
4. Ellen DeGeneres’ Emotional Interview with Ellen Page (Elliot Page)
In 2014, Ellen Page (now Elliot Page) appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show just weeks after coming out publicly as gay. The emotional interview marked a significant moment in Page’s journey toward self-acceptance and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community.
During the conversation, Page discussed the challenges of growing up in Hollywood while hiding his true self and the sense of relief that came with being open about his identity. The interview was widely praised for its honesty and vulnerability, serving as an inspiration to countless fans struggling with their own journeys of self-discovery.
Later, in 2021, Elliot Page returned to the public eye after coming out as transgender. His candid interviews about his experiences as a trans man further solidified his role as a powerful voice in the LGBTQ+ community.
5. Tom Cruise’s Infamous Jump on Oprah’s Couch
In 2005, Tom Cruise appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show to promote his movie War of the Worlds, but the conversation quickly shifted to his relationship with actress Katie Holmes. Cruise’s exuberant display of affection for Holmes—culminating in him jumping up and down on Oprah’s couch—became an instantly iconic moment.
Though it was meant to be a display of love, the incident was widely mocked in the media and marked a turning point in Cruise’s public image. For years, the “couch-jumping” moment was referenced in pop culture as an example of over-the-top celebrity behavior, and it remains one of the most memorable daytime TV moments.
6. Diane Sawyer’s Interview with Whitney Houston
In 2002, Whitney Houston sat down with Diane Sawyer in an interview that revealed the darker side of fame. During the interview, Houston addressed the rumors about her alleged drug use and personal struggles. When asked about the rumors surrounding her addiction, Houston famously responded, “Crack is whack,” a line that has since been etched in pop culture history.
The interview painted a complex picture of Houston’s struggles with addiction and fame, giving viewers a glimpse into the pressures she faced in the public eye. Despite the controversies, Houston’s talent and influence on the music industry remain undeniable. The interview remains a poignant reminder of the difficulties of navigating stardom.
7. Oprah Winfrey’s Interview with Michael Jackson
Another iconic interview hosted by Oprah Winfrey took place in 1993 when she sat down with Michael Jackson at his Neverland Ranch. At the time, Jackson was one of the most famous people on the planet, yet much of his personal life remained shrouded in mystery.
In the interview, Jackson opened up about his childhood, his relationship with his father, and the vitiligo that caused his skin to change color—a subject that had long been the focus of rumors. This rare and candid interview allowed viewers to see a more personal side of the King of Pop, away from the headlines and speculation that often surrounded him.
8. David Frost’s Interview with Richard Nixon
Arguably one of the most significant interviews in modern history, David Frost’s 1977 interview with Richard Nixon marked the first time the former president publicly acknowledged and apologized for his role in the Watergate scandal. The interview, spread over several days, was a historic moment of accountability and remains a gold standard in political journalism.
The emotional climax came when Nixon admitted to letting the American people down, an admission that resonated deeply with the public. The interviews were later dramatized in the film Frost/Nixon (2008), highlighting their importance in shaping the legacy of Nixon’s presidency.
9. Robin Roberts’ Interview with Michelle Obama
In 2018, Robin Roberts conducted an in-depth interview with Michelle Obama following the release of her memoir Becoming. Obama opened up about her time as First Lady, her marriage to Barack Obama, and her experiences growing up on the South Side of Chicago.
The interview was celebrated for its warmth and depth, with Obama candidly discussing issues like race, identity, and the pressures of being in the public eye. Her words resonated with millions of viewers, particularly those who connected with her story of resilience and determination. The interview cemented Michelle Obama’s status as one of the most beloved and influential figures in modern American politics.
Conclusion
Celebrity interviews have the power to entertain, shock, and inspire, offering viewers a glimpse into the personal lives of some of the world’s most famous figures. These renowned interview moments have shaped public perceptions, sparked cultural conversations, and given us unforgettable TV history. Whether revealing vulnerabilities or creating controversies, these iconic conversations continue to influence and define the ever-evolving world of celebrity culture.
