has finally explained why she on the WeightWatchers board last month after almost a decade. The 70-year-old's sudden departure was announced in a statement by the company, but no specific reason was given for her exit. However, during an appearance on on Thursday, Oprah revealed that she decided to step down because of her upcoming special about prescription weight loss medications.
– which airs on ABC March 18 – "delves into the prevailing questions and concerns surrounding the impact on our health care, economy, lifestyle and culture". Speaking to Jimmy, Oprah said she was worried about a "conflict of interest", so she believed she had no choice but to quit the WeightWatchers board. She explained: "I decided that because this special was really important to me and I wanted to be able to talk about whatever I wanted to talk about, and WeightWatchers is now in the business of being a weight health company that also administers drug medications for weight.
"I did not want to have the appearance of any conflict of interest." At the time of her resignation, it was reported that Oprah would donate her sizeable 10% stake in the company to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which she confirmed to Jimmy. She added: "I resigned from the board and donated all of my shares to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
So, nobody can say, 'Oh, she's doing that special, she's making money, promoting.' No, you cannot say that." Oprah joined .