Oprah Winfrey has publicly distanced herself from television personalities Dr. Phil McGraw and Dr. Mehmet Oz, stating that she has "not one thing to do with me" in relation to their political affiliations.

The media mogul's comments mark a significant shift in her public association with the two figures, both of whom rose to prominence with shows that Winfrey's production company, Harpo Productions, was involved with.

While specific details regarding the nature of their political stances that led to Winfrey's statement were not elaborated upon, Dr. Oz notably ran as a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania in 2022. Dr. Phil McGraw has also faced scrutiny for his political commentary and associations.

Winfrey's statement suggests a deliberate effort to separate her personal brand and legacy from the evolving public profiles and political leanings of McGraw and Oz. This move could impact how the public perceives the long-standing connections between the three.

The relationship between Winfrey and Dr. Oz, in particular, dates back to his appearances on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" as a "health expert." His subsequent talk show, "The Dr. Oz Show," was distributed by Sony Pictures Television and began airing in 2009. Similarly, Dr. Phil McGraw's show, "Dr. Phil," launched in 2002, also with Winfrey's endorsement.

Dr. Oz's political campaign and subsequent loss in the Senate race brought heightened attention to his public persona beyond his medical and television career. Dr. Phil's show concluded in 2023 after a 21-season run, and he has continued to engage in public commentary.

This public separation by Winfrey, a highly influential figure in media and culture, underscores the potential consequences of political engagement for those who have built careers on broader appeal. Her statement is likely to be interpreted as a strategic move to protect her own image and influence from potentially divisive political associations.

The long-term implications of this disassociation remain to be seen, but it signals a clear boundary being drawn by Winfrey regarding her current public affiliations with McGraw and Oz.