Nidetch, Jean (1923–)

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Nidetch, Jean (1923–)

American entrepreneur. Born Jean Slutsky, Oct 12, 1923, in Brooklyn, NY; dau. of David Slutsky (cabdriver) and Mae (Fried) Slutsky (manicurist); briefly attended City College of New York; m. Martin Nidetch, April 20, 1947 (div. c. 1973); children: David (b. 1952), Richard (b. 1956.

With 3 others, founded Weight Watchers, a weight-loss business (1963); within 5 years, when the corporation went public, had 81 franchises in 43 states and 10 franchises abroad; served as public relations director, made regular appearances on radio and tv, and wrote The Story of Weight Watchers (1970) and 2 cookbooks; sold company to H.J. Heinz for $71.2 million (1973), negotiating a consulting contract for herself in the process.

See also Women in World History.