Oprah Winfrey is stepping down from the board of WeightWatchers after nearly a decade following her revelation of using a weight-loss medication.
This week, Winfrey informed the company of her decision not to seek re-election at the upcoming annual shareholders’ meeting scheduled for May 2024. She has been a company board member since 2015 when she acquired a 10% stake in WeightWatchers.
“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.
“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,” she continued. “In addition, I have decided to donate my interest in WeightWatchers 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.”
