The media mogul reveals her approach to weight loss and the pressures surrounding body image.
Oprah Winfrey, at 69 years old, has recently opened up about her weight loss transformation, revealing the hard work that led to her new physique. The media mogul, who turned heads at the Los Angeles premiere of The Color Purple in a stunning purple gown, shared insights into her fitness journey with Entertainment Tonight.
When asked about how she achieved her figure, Winfrey explained: “It’s not one thing, it’s everything,” stressing the dedication she’s put into achieving her health and fitness goals. She even mentioned that she worked out the same day as the premiere, saying, “I was on that treadmill today,” highlighting her consistent effort.
Winfrey, who serves as an executive producer for the musical film remake of The Color Purple, previously starred in the 1985 adaptation. The new movie, set for release in December, is a retelling of Alice Walker’s novel and features Danielle Brooks in Winfrey’s original role as Sofia.
In the midst of the growing trend of using Ozempic for weight loss, Winfrey has also reflected on her initial thoughts about the medication. The former talk show host admitted she had considered using the popular type 2 diabetes drug, known for its weight loss side effects, but ultimately rejected it, calling it an “easy way out.” She emphasised her desire to achieve results through her own efforts instead.
During a panel discussion for Oprah Daily, titled The Life You Want Class: The State of Weight, Winfrey addressed the surge in celebrity use of Ozempic. She remarked, “Shouldn’t we all just be more accepting of whatever body you choose to be in? That should be your choice.” Reflecting on her own struggles with weight, she shared how the media shamed her for years, and how the current Ozempic craze felt like a shortcut. “If I take the drug, that’s the easy way out,” Winfrey stated, highlighting her determination to do things on her own terms, especially during her knee surgery recovery.
Dr Fatima Cody Stanford, who was part of the panel, responded compassionately, stressing that “obesity is a chronic disease,” and that weight loss is not about willpower, but rather individual biological differences. Winfrey’s candid comments shed light on the pressures of body image, especially in Hollywood, and sparked a broader conversation about how we view weight loss and health.
