HOUSTON – Famed talk show host Oprah Winfrey has been hit with a $100 million breach of contract suit.
Representing himself, Denard McClairne filed suit against Oprah on Sept. 13, alleging the star failed to promote his book.
In his suit, McClairne says on March 6 he sent Oprah “the original holographic letters” from his memoir, “Last Epistles To Oprah: 7 Years In Piraq,” only days after his “release from prison” and “surprisingly” she emailed him back on March 27.
“The next day, via email, I confessed to her my financial struggles and concerns about regressing to a life of crime … and suggested to Winfrey that I monetize the letters to foster the growth of my career,” the suit states.
“Moreover, I asked her to use her relationship with Curtis ’50 Cent’ Jackson to secure a record deal for me after she mentioned my talents as a songwriter. Winfrey agreed that would be ideal for the prevention of recidivism.”
McClairne then alleges Oprah “contractually agreed” to sign G-UNIT as a recording artist for him and promote his forthcoming book on social media after he paid her $5,000.
Oprah allegedly received and cashed McClairne’s money order. However, she never promoted the book.
“Ms. Winfrey’s contention is that she doesn’t want her name in my title because she feels that the letters are dangerously incriminating for publication,” the suit states.
“Ms. Winfrey has constantly ignored my phone calls, emails, and messages on Facebook, making it difficult for me to communicate with her.”
Because of Oprah’s alleged breach, McClairne has suffered the following damages:
- To commit to stalking crimes with intent;
- To become an alcoholic;
- To develop monomania;
- Pain and suffering;
- Loss of book and record sales; and
- Punitive damages
In addition to $100,005,000 in total damages, McClairne is also seeking coverage for his psychiatric therapy.
Filed in Harris County District Court, cause No. 2017 59991