This is probably one of the most absurd things I’ve ever come across in my job, and I’ve come across some pretty nutty stuff, folks. Fans are saying Oprah hates the handicapped.

In a recent contest Winfrey started on her website to find a host for an upcoming talk show to premier on her OWN network, contestants from all over auditioned and turned in their hopeful submissions, including Zach Anner.

Anner, an Austin, Texas man with cerebral palsy, sent in a comedic video in which he joked about his palsy being the sexiest palsy of them all. He also talked about how he would love to make a travel show about people who never thought they could travel. His mom always told him, “When life gives you wheel chairs, make lemonade,” and though he’s not quite sure what that means, he wants to make lemonade with America.

His charismatic video got quite a response, and for days his chances of winning looked pretty good.

Anner was in first place with over 2 million votes, and then contestant Dr. Phyllis surpassed him and left him in the dust. Reports from voters started pouring in, saying they voted for Anner, but the votes never registered.

A spiteful plot by handicap-hater Oprah to keep the man down? Come on, guys, that’s absurd. This is Oprah we’re talking about. Not Jerry Springer or Maury Povich. Oprah… who at times may seem as if she’s not really listening to guests, but has always done everything in her power to welcome people from all walks of life onto her show: the abused, the downtrodden, the mentally and physically handicapped, the successful.

I don’t know Oprah personally, but I can honestly say I could not even begin to imagine her or her staff ever doing something that seedy to a person. Maybe it was a site glitch, or maybe people’s votes were pouring in so fast they weren’t registering right away. Either way, I feel pretty confident Oprah is innocent. At least I hope she is. She’s one of my heroes.

Here is Anner’s audition video for you to check out. I’d also love to hear what you think about where Oprah falls into this mixed up rumor, so leave your thoughts in the comment section.