Oprah Winfrey Departs WeightWatchers, Shares Plummet
In a surprising turn of events, media mogul Oprah Winfrey has announced her departure from the board of directors at WeightWatchers. This decision comes after Winfrey disclosed her use of weight loss medication last year, sparking a significant drop in the company’s shares. As the largest shareholder of WeightWatchers since 2015, Winfrey’s departure has sent shockwaves through the industry.
Winfrey, 70, made the announcement on Wednesday, stating that she will not seek re-election at the shareholders meeting in May. However, she remains committed to the cause of promoting weight health and plans to continue advising and collaborating with WeightWatchers and CEO Sima Sistani. In a press release shared via the company’s corporate website, Winfrey expressed her dedication to elevating the conversation around recognizing obesity as a chronic condition and working to reduce stigma.
To eliminate any perceived conflict of interest surrounding her use of weight loss medications, Winfrey has pledged to donate her current and future earnings from her WeightWatchers stock to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. This move demonstrates her commitment to transparency and further highlights her desire to advocate for health equity.
Thilo Semmelbauer, chairman of the board at WeightWatchers, expressed his gratitude for Winfrey’s contributions over the years. He acknowledged her inspiring presence and passionate advocacy for the company’s members. Semmelbauer also emphasized that Winfrey will continue to play a role as a collaborator and thought partner going forward.
The revelation of Winfrey’s use of weight loss drugs has sparked a significant discussion around the topic. In a recent cover story with People magazine, Winfrey opened up about the shame she has experienced regarding her weight. She discussed being constantly “blamed and shamed” for her struggles.
Winfrey revealed that she began incorporating weight loss medication into her health regimen in 2023. Alongside activities like hiking, eating her last meal at 4 p.m., and drinking a gallon of water a day, she recognized the need for additional support. Winfrey stated that she no longer feels the pressure to prove her willpower and believes that obesity is a disease that should be addressed as such.
After thoroughly researching the science behind weight loss medications, Winfrey consulted with her doctor, who prescribed it to her. She expressed relief and redemption in the fact that there is a medically approved prescription for managing weight and staying healthier. Winfrey is determined to no longer hide behind her choices and refuses to be subjected to shaming from others or herself.
The departure of Oprah Winfrey from WeightWatchers has undoubtedly shaken the company and its shareholders. However, her commitment to advocating for weight health and addressing obesity as a chronic condition remains unwavering. As she embarks on this new chapter, Winfrey plans to participate in public forums and events where she can be a vocal advocate for advancing the conversation around weight health.
Oprah Winfrey’s influence and impact cannot be understated. Her departure from WeightWatchers may have caused shares to plummet, but it also signifies a turning point in the conversation surrounding weight loss and body image. Winfrey’s willingness to share her own struggles and seek solutions has the potential to inspire others and bring about meaningful change in the way society views weight and health.