Oprah Winfrey quits WeightWatchers board after admitting to using weight-loss drug
OAN’s Sophia Flores
12:53 PM – Friday, March 1, 2024
Oprah Winfrey to Step Down from WeightWatchers Board
Oprah Winfrey, the renowned talk show host, is set to leave the board of the weight loss and maintenance brand WeightWatchers. This decision, which will take effect later this year, marks the end of her nearly 10-year involvement with the company.
On Thursday, Oprah Winfrey made the announcement, revealing her departure from the WeightWatchers board. She initially joined the board in 2015 when she acquired a 10% stake in the company.
“I look forward to continuing to advise and collaborate with WeightWatchers and CEO Sima Sistani in elevating the conversation around recognizing obesity as a chronic condition, working to reduce stigma, and advocating for health equity,” Winfrey said in a statement.
This news comes after Oprah publicly admitted to using a popular weight-loss drug to achieve her own figure transformation. However, she did not disclose which specific drug she used.
Unfortunately, this admission violated her contract with WeightWatchers, as she had previously committed to not engaging in any other weight loss or weight management business during her relationship with the company and for one year afterward.
In a generous move, Oprah has decided to donate her WeightWatchers shares, valued at 6.3 million, to the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC).
“I have been a long-time supporter of this worthy organization, and I am proud to continue my support,” she said.
The NMAAHC released a statement expressing gratitude for Oprah’s donation and explaining that it aims to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans while eliminating any perceived conflict of interest regarding her use of weight loss medications. Additionally, Oprah plans to donate the proceeds from any future exercises of her WW stock options to the NMAAHC.
Currently, Oprah owns 1.1 million shares of WW International, equivalent to a 1.43% stake in the company.
Thilo Semmelbauer, chairman of the board, issued a press release thanking Oprah for her invaluable contributions to WeightWatchers.
“Oprah has been an inspiring presence and passionate advocate for our members, providing critical insights and counsel that has helped shape WeightWatchers over these last 8 years,” he said. “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank her for her energy, dedication, and for continuing to play a role as collaborator and thought partner going forward. What I know for sure, we will dearly miss her presence on the Board.”
Following the announcement, WW International’s shares dropped by more than 20%.
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How will Oprah continue to support and collaborate with WeightWatchers and their CEO after stepping down from the board
Organization, and we are grateful for her dedication and commitment over the past decade,” Semmelbauer said.
Oprah’s involvement with WeightWatchers has been instrumental in the company’s success. Since joining the board, she has brought significant attention and credibility to the brand, which has resulted in increased membership and revenue.
Furthermore, Oprah has been a vocal advocate for body positivity and self-acceptance. She has shared her own struggles with weight and has used her platform to empower others to embrace their bodies and prioritize their health.
While Oprah’s departure from the board may be seen as a loss for WeightWatchers, her impact and legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the company’s mission and values.
As she steps down from her role, Oprah remains committed to supporting the organization and its goals. She will continue to collaborate with WeightWatchers and CEO Sima Sistani to address important issues surrounding obesity, stigma, and health equity.
Overall, Oprah Winfrey’s resignation from the WeightWatchers board marks the end of an era. Her contributions to the organization and the broader conversation on body image and wellness have been invaluable. Her decision to donate her shares to the National Museum of African American History and Culture further highlights her commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
While her departure may bring about changes within the company, Oprah’s influence and legacy will continue to inspire and motivate individuals on their own journeys towards health and self-acceptance.
References
- https://www.msn.com/en-us/entertainment/celebrity/oprah-winfrey-to-step-down-from-weight-watchers-board/ar-AA1DOuD
- https://finance.yahoo.com/news/oprah-winfrey-leave-weight-watchers-055146150.html
- https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/celebrity/oprah-winfrey-resigns-weight-watchers-admits-using-weight-loss-drug-n935921
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