WeightWatchers Files Bankruptcy, Winfrey Exits Board

WeightWatchers (WW International Inc.) has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to eliminate $1.15 billion in debt amid declining revenues and competition from weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. The company will remain operational and aims to exit bankruptcy within 40–45 days as a publicly traded firm, continuing to serve millions of members. WeightWatchers has faced challenges as consumer preferences shift toward pharmaceutical options and away from its traditional points-based system. In response, the company acquired telehealth startup Sequence (now WeightWatchers Clinic), leading to a 57% increase in clinical subscription revenue year-over-year. Leadership has changed, with Tara Comonte taking over as CEO and Oprah Winfrey leaving the board in 2024. The restructuring is intended to stabilize the business and position it for future growth.