Roger Ebert has been a film critic for over forty-three years, influencing media and viewers with his voice and opinion. In 2002, Ebert began a long battle with papillary thyroid cancer. Through countless surgeries, Ebert lost his voice, and has been unable to speak for four years. In 2009, Ebert refused doctor requests to perform one last operation in attempt to restore his voice. In fact, he was so discouraged with surgery, that he said he’d probably even refuse surgery if his cancer ever came back.

Despite his inability to speak vocally, Ebert has remained an active participant in the film industry, offering his critical expertise in writing.

Yesterday, Roger Ebert sat down and talked with Oprah Winfrey.

Yes, ladies and gentleman, he talked. A Scottish company spent hundreds of hours compiling and editing audio captures of Ebert’s voice. Like famous scientist, Stephen Hawking, Ebert now speaks through a computer, and the sound you hear is actually his voice.

For a man who has spent most of his life talking to the world about his favorite, and not-so-favorite films, having the opportunity to speak again is an exciting step for Roger Ebert. I have to admit, the whole thing made me teary. How could it not? It’s amazing!