Oprah Winfrey Addresses Association with Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz

Oprah Winfrey has distanced herself from Dr. Phil McGraw and Dr. Mehmet Oz, both of whom emerged as media figures through her support. The duo are now recognized for their conservative political connections. In a discussion with Emmy Magazine about her career, Winfrey shared her feelings about McGraw and Oz.

Winfrey mentioned, “People criticize me for Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz, because of their politics or their views.” She recounted how, during a significant legal challenge in the late ’90s, Dr. Phil offered her practical advice and support, often accompanying her to court proceedings.

Both McGraw and Oz have developed political identities. Dr. Oz, backed by former President Donald Trump, campaigned for the U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania in 2022 but was defeated by John Fetterman. While Dr. Phil has not officially endorsed a political party, he attended a Trump rally at Madison Square Garden in October 2024 and participated in immigration enforcement activities alongside Trump’s border advisor, Tom Homan.

Winfrey explained her initial reasons for featuring McGraw on her show. She valued his practical approach, believing it could benefit others, saying, “I thought, ‘Oh, you could help a lot of people. You should come on my show.’”

Regarding Dr. Oz, she highlighted his ability to explain complex medical topics in an accessible manner. “He had the language for explaining medical things in a way that was helpful to me,” she noted, suggesting that this skill would also aid others.

Winfrey concluded, “Everybody has their own path in life, and it has not one thing to do with me.” She emphasized that her decision to support them was due to the valuable information they could provide.

Curtis Houck, managing editor for Media Research Center’s NewsBusters, commented that Winfrey seems comfortable engaging in political discourse. He noted, “Oprah certainly doesn’t have a problem with being friends with progressives or anyone willing to take on Trump.” Houck also indicated that Winfrey and her associates should not be perceived as neutral.

While Dr. Phil has chosen not to disclose his 2024 voting decision, he is seen as a conservative commentator. Houck remarked that both Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz should possess the freedom to express their views without being labeled as strictly partisan.

Alexander Hall from Fox News Digital contributed to this report.