Phil McGraw

McGraw photographed for the cover of

McGraw in May 2013

McGraw with wife Robin in May 2013

Phil McGraw (born September 1, 1950), known as Dr. Phil, is an American television personality, author, and former psychologist who is the host of the television show Dr. Phil. His show first aired in September 2002 and was created by Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Studios. McGraw has gained fame and notoriety for his approach to psychology and self-help, which has been described as straightforward and confrontational.

Early Life and Education

Phil McGraw was born in Vinita, Oklahoma, and grew up in the oilfields of North Texas. He played college football at the University of Tulsa before transferring to Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology. He went on to earn a Master's degree and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of North Texas.

Career

Before his television fame, McGraw founded a company called Courtroom Sciences, Inc. (CSI), which provided psychology services to trial lawyers. This is where he met Oprah Winfrey, who was impressed by his skills and later invited him to appear on her show. His appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show in the late 1990s led to his own show, Dr. Phil, which has been on air since 2002.

Dr. Phil covers a wide range of topics, including weight loss, financial planning, errant children, gift suggestions, autistic children, unhappy marriages, and dysfunctional families. Critics have accused the show of sensationalizing complex psychological issues and exploiting vulnerable guests. Despite this, it has remained popular among viewers.

McGraw has also written several best-selling books, including Life Strategies: Doing What Works, Doing What Matters and The Ultimate Weight Solution: The 7 Keys to Weight Loss Freedom.

Controversies

Throughout his career, McGraw has been involved in various controversies, including accusations of practicing psychology without a license and allegations of unethical conduct on his television show. He has also been criticized for the handling of sensitive topics and the treatment of guests.

Personal Life

Phil McGraw has been married to Robin Jameson since 1976, and the couple has two sons, Jay and Jordan. Jay McGraw has followed in his father's footsteps, creating and producing the television show The Doctors.

Legacy

Despite the controversies, Dr. Phil has made a significant impact on popular culture and the field of television psychology. His straightforward approach and catchphrases have become part of the American lexicon.