Phil McGraw

At the end of the 20th century, television talk was in a deplorable state. Ruling the airwaves were unproductive discussions with self-involved people that often led to fights in the studio. Amidst all the sensationalism and downright disgusting behavior was one show that was trying to use the power of television to accomplish something positive. “The Oprah Winfrey” show was that one show, and part of what set it apart from similarly formatted shows the guest presence of Dr. Phil McGraw, an engaging personality with the professional training and real world experience necessary to help people work through their problems.

Dr. Phil was often brought in by Oprah to tackle certain problems she didn’t feel up to addressing, and his advice and analysis helped people identify unhealthy habits and bad routines that were affecting their family life and their physical and emotional health. On a personal level, Dr. Phil comes across as concerned, but is unafraid to tell it like is, to the dismay of some guests and to the delight of others. But his straight-shooting brand of TV psychology has helped not only guests, but also audiences, look at their own lives and priorities a little more clearly.

He has been host of his own show, Dr. Phil, since 1992, and is the author several bestsellers as well as being a regular contributor to O magazine and lending his expertise to a variety of properties such as Internet dating services. His show most commonly focuses on improving eating and exercise habits, and working through some of the most common problems in relationships. His advice centers on getting people to focus on what they have control over and responsibility for—and learning to laugh off the rest.

He holds a Ph.D. in psychology from North Texas State University and was a renowned international consult in criminal psychology for years before hitting the airwaves. He is married with two sons and continues to be a committed force towards improving talk show culture and peoples’ lives.