The former daytime TV show host explains her upcoming TV special about weight loss is the real reason why she decided to step down from the board of the weight health company.
- Mar 15, 2024
AceShowbiz - Oprah Winfrey has announced her resignation from the board of Weight Watchers, a role she held for nearly a decade. The decision stems from Winfrey's upcoming primetime television special, "Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution," which will explore the impact of prescription weight loss medications.
"I did not want to have any appearance of conflict of interest," Winfrey explained on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" as Weight Watchers has expanded into a weight health company that also offers such medications. To avoid any potential bias, she resigned from the board and donated all her shares to the National Museum of African American History.
The upcoming special, airing March 18 on ABC and Hulu, will gather medical experts and individuals facing weight challenges to discuss health equity and obesity, with a focus on reducing the stigma surrounding weight.
Winfrey, who has openly struggled with weight throughout her life, revealed in December that she uses weight loss medication. Her personal journey and insights will play a key role in the special.
"For the first time in history, new drugs could prove to be a game changer to stem the tide of people living with obesity," a press release for the special stated. Winfrey emphasized the importance of shedding light on the issue, noting, "This special will... release the shame, judgment, and stigma surrounding weight."
Weight Watchers reportedly expressed disappointment at Winfrey's departure but understood her reasoning. Despite her resignation, Winfrey remains a supporter of the company and believes in its mission to promote healthy lifestyles.
