Oprah Makes Surprise Appearance to Help Rachael Ray Celebrate Her 2,000th Episode

Rachael Ray will celebrate her 2,000th episode Thursday with a surprising welcome from the “Queen of all Media” – Oprah Winfrey. 

In the show, which was taped Wednesday, Winfrey introduced Ray to kick off the milestone episode.  

“Having Oprah introduce me was mind blowing, like mind-blowing," Ray told Inside Edition backstage. "What is she doing introducing me? Like, that's so crazy."

During her introduction, Winfrey recalled Ray's appearance on her own show in 2005 and said that, even back then, she knew Ray was "the real deal."

Winfrey also brought out one of Ray’s celebrity foodie friends – Chef Emeril Lagasse. 

“The show is special to me. I think it's one of the greatest daytime shows that's out there, and I’m happy be a part of it, congratulations, Rachael,” Lagasse told Inside Edition.