Oprah shuts down part of Chicago to kick off new season

Chicago -- Oprah Winfrey kicked off her 24th season on Tuesday by showing just how big the O in her name is. Oprah not only exercised her power in Chicago by shutting down the entire "magnificent mile," she also managed to hire Lily`s Talent Agency to choreograph and organize an audience-wide dance to the Black Eyed Peas`s new single "I Gotta Feeling."

The forecast hinted at rain but, to no avail, the storm seemed to have missed Chicago, providing a dry stage for special guests James Taylor, The Black Eyed Peas, Jennifer Hudson, and others.

Check out the flawless performances and the beyond amazing audience participation -- which Taboo (of the Black Eyed Peas) calls the world`s largest dance routine -- and other surprises when the two hour special airs this Thursday.

I gotta feeling it'll be worth the wait.