The media mogul addresses criticism over her former protégés' political affiliations
Category: Politics
Oprah Winfrey has publicly distanced herself from Dr. Phil McGraw and Dr. Mehmet Oz, two prominent figures she helped launch into the national spotlight, following their alignment with conservative politics. In an interview with Emmy Magazine, Winfrey expressed her feelings about the backlash she faces due to their political affiliations, stating that she has no control over their paths.
During her conversation with Emmy Magazine, Winfrey, 72, addressed the criticism she receives for her past associations with McGraw and Oz, both of whom have become notable supporters of former President Donald Trump. "People criticize me for Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz because of their politics or their views," she said. Winfrey recalled how Dr. Phil supported her during a grueling legal battle in the late 1990s, which involved a lawsuit from Texas cattlemen accusing her of defaming the beef industry. "Dr. Phil was so practical, so down-to-earth, so real. He would ride in the car with me every morning on the way to trial," she added, emphasizing his instrumental role during that challenging time.
Dr. Oz, who was introduced to Winfrey by her longtime friend Gayle King, also gained prominence through his appearances on her show. Winfrey noted that Oz explained medical topics in an accessible way, which led her to believe he could help many people. "He explained practical things like colon cancer and bowel movements. I thought he had the language for explaining medical things in a way that was helpful to me," she stated.
This distancing is particularly relevant as both McGraw and Oz have increasingly aligned themselves with conservative politics. Dr. Oz, who ran for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania in 2022 with Trump's endorsement, lost to Democrat John Fetterman. Meanwhile, Dr. Phil has appeared at Trump campaign events and participated in controversial immigration enforcement operations alongside Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel. These actions have led to public scrutiny of Winfrey's past decisions to promote these individuals.
Winfrey's comments highlight a broader discussion about the responsibilities of public figures in the political arena. As a Democratic-leaning voter who has endorsed candidates like Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Kamala Harris, Winfrey's support for McGraw and Oz has come under fire due to their pro-Trump stances. She reiterated her belief that everyone has their own path in life, stating, "It has not one thing to do with me, and I don’t have one thing to do with them." This statement reflects her desire to separate her legacy from the political trajectories of her former protégés.
Winfrey's distancing from McGraw and Oz could have implications for her public image, especially among her core audience, which largely aligns with progressive values. The backlash against her associations may affect her credibility and influence, particularly as she continues to engage in political discourse. Critics argue that her past support for McGraw and Oz complicates her status as a respected figure in liberal circles.
Dr. Phil's political activities have been particularly controversial. After attending a Trump rally in October 2024, he defended the former president and his supporters, though he later insisted that his appearance was not an endorsement. He has also been appointed to Trump's Religious Liberty Commission, a move that signals his alignment with the administration's agenda. This shift in McGraw's public persona contrasts sharply with Winfrey's long-standing Democratic affiliations.
Dr. Oz's political ambitions have also raised eyebrows. His Senate campaign was marked by his association with Trump, which alienated some voters who once viewed him as a trusted health expert. Winfrey's endorsement of Fetterman just days before the election underscored her disapproval of Oz's political direction, marking a clear divide between her and her former guest.
As Winfrey continues to navigate her public persona, observers will follow closely how her distancing from McGraw and Oz affects her relationships within the entertainment and political spheres. Will she continue to face backlash from those who feel betrayed by her past associations? How will this impact her future endorsements and philanthropic efforts?
In the coming months, the political activities of both McGraw and Oz will remain in the spotlight. With McGraw's involvement in immigration enforcement and Oz's role in the Trump administration as Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, their actions will likely spark continued debate about the responsibilities of public figures in politics.
Winfrey's ability to maintain her relevance in a politically charged environment will depend on her responses to these criticisms and how she chooses to engage with political issues moving forward. The dynamics of her relationships with McGraw and Oz—once seen as beneficial partnerships—have now become a point of contention that may influence her future endeavors.