Dr. Phil announces end of daytime talk show after 21 seasons: ‘I have been blessed’
Dr. Phil McGraw is ending his eponymous daytime talk show after more than two decades on the air.
McGraw, who holds a doctorate in clinical psychology, said in a statement that while the show “has been an incredible chapter in my life and career,” he wants to pursue other projects after the show’s 21st season.
“I’ve been blessed with over 25 wonderful years in daytime television,” McGraw said. “With this show, we’ve helped thousands of guests and millions of viewers through everything from addiction and marriage to mental wellness and parenting.”
“Dr. Phil” will continue to air original episodes throughout its 2022-2023 television season.
Dr Phil McGraw is leaving his talk show “Dr Phil” after 21 seasons to pursue other projects.
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As for his next move, McGraw says he will focus on primetime programming and plans to announce a strategic primetime partnership slated for release in 2024.
“I am compelled to engage with a wider audience because I have serious concerns for the American family, and I am determined to help restore clarity of purpose as well as our core values,” McGraw said.
McGraw began his television career on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” in the late 90s and then made his talk show hosting debut with “Dr. Phil” in September 2002. The show was an instant hit, holding first or second place in its genre for its entire run, as well as 31 Emmy nominations.
The show has also garnered its fair share of controversy. In February 2022, a dozen current and former employees of the syndicated talk show alleged a toxic and traumatic work environment in a Buzzfeed report.
Those who spoke with BuzzFeed said they were often shouted at by executive producer Carla Pennington and other high-profile employees. Five of those interviewed claimed that during the Pennington outbursts, she ridiculed people as “idiots” or “stupid” and used other slurs.
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“This show destroyed me mentally, emotionally and physically,” a former staffer said at the time. “They make you feel like not only are you worthless, but every day you’re told how (expletive) you are, how horrible your job is, but you’re indispensable, so they don’t fire you . This type of mental game drags us emotionally and physically into other positions after leaving the show.
In addition to his hit talk show, McGraw is also a producer. His work includes the CBS series “Bull,” on which he served as executive producer, writer, and co-creator. He also hosts the podcasts “Phil in the Blanks” and “Mystery & Murder: Analysis by Dr. Phil”.
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Contributor: Erin Jensen, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Dr. Phil is ending his longtime talk show after 21 seasons