Oprah Winfrey Reflects on Relationship with Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz

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Oprah Winfrey has expressed a desire to distance herself from Dr. Phil McGraw and Dr. Mehmet Oz, two media figures whose careers she helped launch. Both McGraw and Oz have since gained attention for their associations with conservative politics.

Oprah’s Reflections on Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz

During an interview with Emmy Magazine, Winfrey was asked about her current views on McGraw and Oz. She recounted how practical and supportive Dr. Phil was during a challenging legal battle in the late ’90s. Winfrey noted that he provided her with practical advice and accompanied her to trial each day.

Both Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz have ventured into politically charged areas. Dr. Oz, supported by former President Donald Trump, contested for a U.S. Senate seat in Pennsylvania in 2022 but lost to Sen. John Fetterman. While McGraw has not publicly disclosed his political allegiance, he was seen at a Trump rally in 2024 and involved in events associated with Trump’s immigration policies.

Winfrey’s Intentions

Winfrey explained that she initially invited Dr. Phil to her show because she believed he could help many people, much like he helped her. Similarly, she found Dr. Oz’s ability to explain medical topics accessible and useful. Her intention was to offer them a platform to share their insights with a broader audience.

Winfrey stated that their current paths in life do not reflect back on her, emphasizing that she provided opportunities based on their potential to inform and assist others.

Political Engagement and Criticism

Despite her separation from Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz, Winfrey herself remains politically active. Critics such as Curtis Houck from Media Research Center’s NewsBusters pointed out her involvement in progressive causes and friendships, arguing that she is not impartial. Houck commented on Winfrey’s public presence and her affiliations with figures like Gayle King and the Obamas.

Winfrey maintains that Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz should be free to express their opinions without being labeled as committed partisans because of their past with her.