The Controversial Reason Oprah Left Weight Watchers

Oprah Winfrey is stepping away from her role at Weight Watchers.

In a statement to Entertainment Tonight, Oprah, who joined Weight Watcher's board of directors nearly a decade ago, said she will still be involved with the company to some extent.

"I look forward to continuing to advise and collaborate with Weight Watchers and CEO Sima Sistani in elevating the conversation around recognizing obesity as a chronic condition, working to reduce stigma, and advocating for health equity," Oprah 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. In addition, I have decided to donate my interest in Weight Watchers 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 continued.

Why Is Oprah Leaving Weight Watchers?

Oprah's stepping down from her role on Weight Watchers' board of directors comes just months after it was revealed the television icon uses prescription weight loss medication.

"The fact that there's a medically approved prescription for managing weight and staying healthier, in my lifetime, feels like relief, like redemption, like a gift, and not something to hide behind and once again be ridiculed for. I'm absolutely done with the shaming from other people and particularly myself," Oprah told People in December 2023.

"Obesity is a disease. It’s not about willpower... it's about the brain," she added.

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The revelation sparked some backlash, however, as just days earlier Oprah claimed during a discussion with Weight Watchers CEO Sima Sistani that she would never take Ozempic or similar weight loss medications as she viewed them as an "easy way out."

According to The Hollywood Reporter, prior to her leaving, Oprah's stake in the company was valued at $18 million.