In a rare and controversial episode of his talk show, Dr. Phil McGraw sat down with Shelley Duvall, the acclaimed actress known for her iconic roles in films such as The Shining and Popeye. The interview, which aired in November 2016, quickly became a lightning rod for public opinion. It sparked intense debate over media ethics, mental health, and the responsibilities of talk show hosts in handling sensitive subjects.
Despite the significant backlash and criticism from viewers and mental health advocates, the TV personality, who announced earlier this year that his talk show would be ending, recently addressed critics about the 2016 highly contentious interview.
Dr. Phil says he does not regret having the interview with Shelley Duvall
Speaking with journalist Chris Wallace on a recent Friday episode of CNN‘s Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace, McGraw acknowledged that while he stands by his decision to conduct the interview, he was dissatisfied with how it was promoted. He felt that the promotion led people to question his intentions.
RELATED: Shelley Duvall, Star From ‘The Shining,’ Dies At 75
The 73-year-old clarified that the interview’s purpose was misunderstood. Contrary to the widespread belief among fans, family, and friends of the late actress, his aim was to assist Duvall in overcoming the mental health challenges she was facing at that time.
Dr Phil McGraw slams critics, says he tried to help Shelley Duvall
McGraw went on to emphasize the extensive efforts his team went through to support Duvall. He revealed that after the interview, his team worked with the late actress and her family for over a year off-camera. During this period, they provided her with opportunities for both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care.
The talk show host also lashed out at his critics, noting that in the years following the incident, none of them ever offered any kind of assistance to the late star.
