The golden oldie of daytime talk shows – Dr. Phil, hosted by psychologist-turned-TV star Dr. Phil McGraw, is ending after 21 seasons on screen.
After launching the talk show in September 2002, the program that was co-created by Oprah Winfrey will air new episodes until the current season ends, then McGraw will move on to other ventures.
The end of this era in daytime television marks the third major exit from the top syndicated ranks in as many years. Judge Judy was the longest top performing program and was signed off in 2021 after 25 seasons.
2022 also marked the end of the entertaining Ellen DeGeneres era, and now 2023 has seen the end of Dr. Phil.
Where is started
Dr. Phil McGraw debuted his TV career with appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show in the late 1990s before he transitioned to his own tough-talking show in 2002.
It was Dr. Phil McGraw’s decision to stop producing new episodes at the age of 72. This is what he had to say:
“I have been blessed with over 25 wonderful years in daytime television. With this show, we have helped thousands of guests and millions of viewers through everything from addiction and marriage to mental wellness and raising children.”
He continued:
“This has been an incredible chapter of my life and career, but while I’m moving on from daytime, there is so much more I wish to do. I am compelled to engage with a broader audience because I have grave concerns for the American family, and I am determined to help restore a clarity of purpose as well as our core values.”
Sources emphasised that McGraw made the call himself, to end production of the hourlong series that airs Monday to Friday.
McGraw has shifted into the role of producer for scripted primetime programming in recent years, and he hosts two podcasts. Despite steep declines across the board in linear TV, Dr. Phil is still averaging about 2 million viewers per episode. Which secures its spot as the highest-rated daytime talk show after Disney’s Live With Kelly and Ryan.
What’s Next for McGraw?
McGraw hinted at a new TV endeavor with the intention to announce a “strategic primetime partnership” that will be designed to allow him to “increase his impact on television and viewers.” McGraw is targeting an early 2024 launch although details remain sparse.
He says: “I am compelled to engage with a broader audience because I have grave concerns for the American family, and I am determined to help restore a clarity of purpose as well as our core values.”
McGraw thanks Oprah Winfrey for “changing his life” and has earned 31 Daytime Emmy nominations over its long run.
For Season 21, McGraw serves as executive producer along with Carla Pennington.
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Featured Image: Instagram / @drphil
