remember the truth...it's all that matters

so i've just watched the third full hour episode of oprah devoted to the book "a million little pieces" and its' author, james frey.
i should add the disclaimer that i'm not a loyal viewer so to catch all three episodes was pure fluke.
the first 2 i caught last fall and were praising his talent and story and today, oprah did a complete 180 and verbally lashed him and posed some tough, humiliating questions and thoughts.
this episode came in the wake of controversy and questions raised regarding the authors memoir of his time spent in rehab. the smoking gun website initiated the investigation and that opened the floodgates for dozens of reputable journalists' and critics' complaints and shame for the author.
at first i dismissed the situations in question - these weren't pivotal elements to the story and whether htey we were exaggerated or embellished, didn't affect the overall essence of his message.
however, after watching oprah and hearing just exactly the extent of his fabrications (his time spent in jail, the dentist visit) it was hard to still support and stand by james and his book. a part of me felt bad for him as i think oprah was acting more out of her "embarassment and disappointment" desperately trying ot wipe the egg off her face and put it on his. he graciously accepted all of her harsh criticisms and held himself together with great composure. i'm not denying the fact that he lied or that his memoir is somewhat forged, but the person he portrays as himself in the book is one who you cheer for and cry for and hope for. what's disappointing after hearing the lies, is whether or not to believe that his character was a true portrayal of himself.
nevertheless, it was hard for anyone with a heart to not feel an ounce of compassion for him as he was grilled repeatedly on the oprah show.
note to self: never piss off oprah winfrey!
i don't think the controversy will hurt the sales of his book - in fact, publicity, be it good or bad, is publicity and after seeing/reading the accusations i'm certain it will spark curiosity in readers' who will go out and purchase his book.
i on the other hand, will continue reading. ironic that it's a book about addiction and it is, truly that - addictive.