Oprah Winfrey Severs Ties with Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz Amid Political Divide
Oprah Winfrey has publicly distanced herself from Dr. Phil McGraw and Dr. Mehmet Oz, stating she has no connection to their current political activities. Although she launched their careers through her show and production company, Winfrey emphasizes that their recent alignment with President Trump is unrelated to her. McGraw has supported Trump’s agenda, while Oz now leads the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Key points
- Winfrey told Emmy magazine that she has 'not one thing to do with' McGraw and Oz, rejecting criticism for their political views.
- She acknowledged giving both men their big breaks because she believed they had valuable information to share with her audience.
- McGraw appeared at a Trump rally in 2024 and was appointed to the Religious Liberty Commission in 2025.
- Oz lost his 2022 Senate bid to John Fetterman, whom Winfrey endorsed, before being confirmed as CMS administrator in April 2025.
- Winfrey’s own political path has remained with Democrats, including endorsements for Obama, Clinton, and Harris.
Background
This story follows earlier coverage in August 2026 where Winfrey first explained her rationale for platforming these figures. She clarified that her initial intent was to share useful information, not to endorse future political trajectories. The current report reinforces that narrative while detailing specific recent political appointments and public appearances by both men that have widened the gap between them and Winfrey.
Why it matters
The statement highlights a significant cultural and political fracture within the legacy of daytime television. It underscores how media figures who were once aligned under a single brand have diverged sharply in their political loyalties, reflecting broader societal polarization. It also illustrates the limits of a media mogul’s influence over the subsequent careers of those she helped launch.
What to watch
Expect continued public separation between Winfrey and the two doctors. McGraw may continue his role in the Religious Liberty Commission, while Oz will likely remain active in his CMS role. Winfrey is expected to maintain her support for Democratic candidates and causes, further solidifying the ideological divide.
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