Oprah Winfrey recently took accountability for her past promotion of unsustainable weight loss methods during a live WeightWatchers special. The iconic talk show host acknowledged her role in perpetuating diet culture through her various platforms over the years. She expressed regret over a particular moment on 'The Oprah Winfrey Show' where she showcased a wagon filled with 67 pounds of fat, symbolizing her weight loss from a liquid-only fast.
Winfrey, along with actresses Rebel Wilson, Amber Riley, and Busy Philipps, as well as WeightWatchers CEO Sima Sistani and medical professionals, discussed the company's transition towards focusing on weight health rather than traditional dieting. They emphasized the importance of seeking medical intervention for weight management and promoting body positivity.
In December 2023, Winfrey disclosed that she had lost 40 pounds with the help of a weight-loss medication, a method she had previously criticized as an 'easy way out.' She highlighted the relief and redemption she felt in utilizing medically approved prescriptions for weight management, rejecting any form of shaming from others or herself.
Subsequently, Winfrey resigned from the WeightWatchers board of directors after nearly a decade of collaboration to prevent any conflict of interest. She clarified her decision to step down was to maintain the integrity of her upcoming special on prescription weight-loss medications without facing accusations of financial gain.
Furthermore, Winfrey donated all her shares in WeightWatchers to the National Museum of African American History and Culture to eliminate any potential conflicts of interest. Her actions aimed to ensure transparency and integrity in her advocacy for weight health and medical interventions for weight management.
