Oprah Winfrey‘s decision to step down from the WeightWatchers board after nearly a decade has sparked curiosity, especially considering her estimated earnings of $220 million from the company, TMZ reports. In a recent interview with Jimmy Kimmel, the talk show legend shed light on her departure, citing ethical concerns and the desire to avoid any appearance of conflict of interest.

Oprah Winfrey revealed that her upcoming special about prescription weight loss drugs played a significant role in her decision. The special, titled “An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution,” addresses issues of shame and questions surrounding the use of weight-loss medications. With WeightWatchers venturing into the prescription weight-loss drug business in 2023, Winfrey felt it necessary to resign from the board to maintain her independence in discussing the topic.

Also, explaining her rationale to Kimmel, Winfrey emphasized her commitment to transparency and avoiding any perception of impropriety. By resigning from the board and donating all her shares to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, she sought to eliminate any potential conflict of interest. Winfrey's decision underscores her dedication to integrity and ethical standards in her professional endeavors.

Furthermore, despite her substantial earnings from WeightWatchers over the years, Winfrey's actions reflect her prioritization of ethical considerations over financial gain. By relinquishing her ties to the company, she aims to ensure that her advocacy and public discussions remain authentic and untainted by any perceived conflicts.

While some may question Winfrey's motives or suggest skepticism regarding her financial interests, her actions speak to a deeper commitment to integrity and transparency. As she embarks on this new chapter, Winfrey continues to be a prominent voice in discussions surrounding weight loss and health, navigating complex ethical considerations with grace and conviction.