Zane Deaton

Oprah, arguably the most popular talk show hostess in the country, has always been known to use her position of power to give back to the community. Now she has even been recognized by PETA for her support when it comes to the rights of animals.

Winfrey, as reported by the L.A. Times, was named PETA’s Person of the Year because she has devoted episodes of her popular daytime talkshow to helping expose the problem of animal cruelty.

Earlier this year, to protest factory farming and other mistreatment, she went on a 21-day vegan diet, influencing countless fans to do the same. She also focused several episodes on puppy mills; most famously when animal rescuer Bill Smith asked her to address the problem on a Chicago billboard stating, “The dogs need you.”

“It is appalling and beneath our humanity to allow the torture of animals . . .” Winfrey says.

Oprah’s list of good deeds only continues to expand.