Oprah Winfrey to leave board of Weight Watchers

Oprah Winfrey will step down from the board of Weight Watchers. The celebrity disclosed her use of weight-loss drugs for maintenance.

The celebrity Oprah Winfrey recently revealed she used weight-loss drugs as a “maintenance tool.”

The US celebrity, who has served on the firm’s board since 2015, announced her decision not to seek re-election at its upcoming shareholder meeting in May.

Ms. Winfrey recently disclosed her use of weight-loss drugs as a “maintenance tool.”

Shares in Weight Watchers International dropped by 27% in after-hours trading in New York.

Ms. Winfrey stated that she plans to continue collaborating with Weight Watchers “to raise awareness about recognizing obesity as a chronic condition.”

The influential talk show host and businesswoman also declared her intention to donate all her shares in the firm to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Ms. Winfrey holds one of the largest stakes in Weight Watchers, approximately 10%.

Upon joining the company almost a decade ago, Ms. Winfrey participated in the Weight Watchers program and shared her journey with other members, having previously spoken openly about her weight struggles.

Her decision to step down from the board coincides with significant changes in the weight-loss industry following the introduction of anti-obesity drugs like Wegovy and Saxenda.

Weight Watchers released its latest financial results on Tuesday, reporting a net loss of $88.1 million (£69.6 million) for the last quarter of 2023, more than double the loss from the same period the previous year.

In March 2023, the company announced its acquisition of digital health company Sequence, citing it as a logical progression given advancements in chronic weight management medications.

Sequence offers a weight loss program with services including guidance from fitness coaches and dietitians, and the ability to prescribe drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.

Weight Watchers CEO Sima Sistani stated that the $132 million deal would enable members to benefit from both the company’s nutrition and behavior-change approach and prescription medications.

This decision comes at a time when the company is looking to revamp its strategies and adapt to the ever-changing wellness industry. Oprah, who has been a significant influencer for the brand, will be missed by many. However, she remains committed to her partnership with Weight Watchers and will continue to support the company as its most prominent spokesperson. It’s a big change, but as we all know, Oprah is never one to shy away from new beginnings. We’re excited to see what’s in store for both her and Weight Watchers in the future. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds!

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