Oprah Winfrey Reflects on Her Association with Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz

Oprah Winfrey has publicly addressed her relationship with Dr. Phil McGraw and Dr. Mehmet Oz, both of whom she helped become national media personalities. These figures have since been linked to conservative politics.

In an interview with Emmy Magazine, Winfrey shared her thoughts on the criticism she faces due to McGraw and Oz’s political affiliations. She reminisced about a legal battle in the late 1990s, emphasizing Dr. Phil’s support during that time. “Dr. Phil was practical, down-to-earth, and real,” she said. “He escorted me to trial every morning where I was on trial for six weeks.”

Dr. Oz ventured into political territory with his U.S. Senate run in Pennsylvania in 2022, backed by President Donald Trump. He was defeated by John Fetterman. Dr. Phil has not formally endorsed a political party but made appearances at Trump events, such as the Madison Square Garden campaign rally in October 2024. Additionally, he was present during immigration raids in Chicago alongside Tom Homan.

Oprah Winfrey took center stage on the third day of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center in Chicago, August 2024.

Reflecting on Dr. Phil’s early appearances on her show, Winfrey stated, “I believed he could help many others after he was instrumental in supporting me.” For Dr. Oz, she recalled his ability to explain complex medical topics simply, which she found helpful. “I figured his explanations would benefit others, and that’s why they appeared on my show.”

Winfrey noted, “Everyone follows their own path, completely separate from me. My initial intention was to share valuable information that resonated with me.”

In recent comments, Curtis Houck, managing editor of Media Research Center’s NewsBusters, remarked on Winfrey’s willingness to engage in political discussions. “Although Oprah has no issue befriending progressives or anyone critical of Trump, she promotes causes important to her viewers,” Houck stated.

Dr. Phil has not disclosed his voting preferences in 2024 but has become known as a commentator in conservative circles. Meanwhile, Houck criticized Winfrey and her colleagues for promoting progressive views, saying, “Oprah and Gayle King should not be considered non-partisan, despite their gratitude from Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz.”