For years, Oprah Winfrey has been a prominent spokesperson and board executive for the weight-loss company Weight Watchers, now known as WW. Her partnership with the company, however, is now coming to an end after a recent major revelation.
Back in 2015, the 70-year-old media mogul and talk show host acquired a 10% stake in Weight Watchers, becoming its spokesperson and joining the board of directors, which resulted in an immediate surge in stocks. Oprah has been a strong advocate for the company, reassuring viewers through commercials that weight loss was achievable without giving up their favorite food, including bread.
But now, after nearly a decade, the high-profile partnership between Oprah and WW is dissolving. Oprah recently made a candid confession about her weight loss journey, revealing that she has been using an unspecified weight loss drug. In an interview with People, she explained, “I realized I’d been blaming myself all these years for being overweight, and I have a predisposition that no amount of willpower is going to control. Obesity is a disease. It’s not about willpower — it’s about the brain.”
Oprah’s revelation comes at a time when prescription anti-obesity medications, like Ozempic, are gaining popularity. Fans had mixed reactions to her admission, with some praising her honesty while others criticized her for promoting diet programs in the past. Oprah, however, clarified that she still used the Weight Watchers point system in her daily weight regimen.
Just two months after her confession, Oprah announced her departure from Weight Watchers. In a company release, WW confirmed that Oprah would not seek re-election to their Board of Directors and would be donating her shares to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Despite stepping down from the board, Oprah will continue to advise and collaborate with the company and host events focused on weight health.
Oprah stated, “Weight health is a critically important topic and one that needs to be addressed at a broader scale. I plan to participate in a number of public forums and events where I will be a vocal advocate in advancing this conversation.” The Board of Directors expressed their gratitude for Oprah’s contributions over the years and acknowledged her ongoing role as a collaborator and thought partner.
However, the news of Oprah parting ways with Weight Watchers had an immediate impact on the company. Weight Watchers shares plummeted 25%, and the stock is now down nearly 70%. This significant drop reflects the company’s need to navigate a changing weight loss culture and increasing competition from drug alternatives like Ozempic.
Oprah has been an influential spokesperson for Weight Watchers, and her departure marks the end of an era. It is crucial for individuals to be honest about their weight loss journeys, and Oprah’s revelation highlights the complexities and challenges many face. What are your thoughts on this news? Share your opinions!
