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Oprah Winfrey Opens Up About Weight Loss Journey and Producing The Color Purple Musical

Oprah Winfrey, a media mogul and philanthropist, has shared insights into her recent weight loss journey. Speaking on the red carpet at the world premiere of “The Color Purple,” she revealed the multifaceted approach she took to achieve her transformation.

At 69, Winfrey emphasized that her weight loss wasn’t attributed to a single factor but rather a combination of efforts. Speaking to Entertainment Tonight at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, she stated, “It’s not one thing; it’s everything. I intend to keep it that way.”

This holistic approach underscores the significance of a well-rounded lifestyle for sustained well-being.

Acknowledging her commitment to an active lifestyle, Winfrey admitted to working out before gracing the purple carpet.

Dressed in a form-fitting purple gown at the premiere, she seamlessly blended fitness and glamour. “I was on that treadmill today,” she shared, highlighting her dedication to maintaining a healthy routine.

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Winfrey, a longtime advocate for wellness, has previously engaged with the weight loss program WW (formerly WeightWatchers).

Currently serving as an investor and board member, she spoke openly about her association with the program. The collaboration with WW aligns with her commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles and positive body image.

Producing “The Color Purple” Musical

Beyond discussions about her physique, Winfrey dug into her role as a producer for the upcoming movie musical adaptation of “The Color Purple.”

Having starred in the original 1985 film, she portrayed the character Sofia and earned an Academy Award nomination for best supporting actress.

The movie, set to release on Dec. 25, features Danielle Brooks as Sofia and Fantasia Barrino Taylor in the lead role of Celie.

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Expressing her joy in passing on the iconic role, Winfrey commented on Danielle Brooks making the character of Sofia her own.

In an interview with Vanity Fair, she conveyed the satisfaction of witnessing a new generation breathe life into the beloved characters from Alice Walker’s 1982 novel.

Oprah Winfrey commended Fantasia Barrino Taylor’s performance at the Elle Women in Hollywood event, describing it as a “phoenix rising in this moment.”

The accolades underscore the anticipation and excitement surrounding the musical adaptation, showcasing the emotional depth and power of the cast’s performances.

Reflecting on her own experiences, Winfrey touched upon media scrutiny regarding her weight. In September, during her “The State of Weight” panel conversation, she revealed the impact of being “shamed in the tabloids” for her weight.

The panel, part of Oprah Daily’s “The Life You Want” series, aimed to destigmatize conversations around obesity and explore weight-loss aids like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro.

Winfrey candidly addressed the challenges of being a public figure and navigating weight loss and gain.

In a clip shared exclusively with USA TODAY, she highlighted the societal treatment disparities based on weight. “People treat you differently; they just do,” she stated, emphasizing the pervasive impact of weight-related biases.

Having rejoined WW in 2016, Winfrey expressed a commitment to a lifestyle that incorporates the principles of the program.

In a phone call promoting the plan, she acknowledged feeling like she was on a diet that she would never go off and anticipated counting points for the rest of her life.

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Martina Birk

Update: 2024-07-08