Five Potential Replacements for the Irreplaceable Oprah Winfrey

March 23, 2010 — -- Wanted: one host -- scratch that -- one larger-than-life personality to helm a culturally iconic TV show that serves as a stomping ground for the most recognizable celebrities, politicians, and newsmakers in the world. Must offer a shoulder to cry on as well as a couch to jump on. A bellowing voice: a bonus.

Oprah Winfrey's vacating that gig in mere months (September 2011, to be exact, though she'll still dabble in TV through OWN, her cable network, and other projects).

It's time for Winfrey's would-be successors to fix up their resumes and get in the game. Below, check out five people who could take over her throne. Of course, some candidates might be more viable than others, but when it comes to crowning the next talk show mogul, it never hurts to cast the net far and wide.