Oprah Winfrey, schoolgirls to testify at defamation trial

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Several South African schoolgirls reportedly abused at Oprah Winfrey’s academy there are set to testify at an upcoming trial in Philadelphia.

The school’s former headmistress is suing Winfrey for defamation over remarks the billionaire talk show host made during the 2007 scandal.

Winfrey said she had “lost confidence” in headmistress Nomvuyo Mzamane and was “cleaning house from top to bottom.” Mzamane says she had trouble finding a new job afterward.

Winfrey is also expected to testify during the two-week federal trial, which starts March 29.

Lawyers were in court today to discuss witness lists and other last-minute details.

A dorm matron has been charged in South Africa with abusing six students.