Dr. Phil McGraw at a media event, facing challenges in his new venture.

Dr. Phil's Merit Street Media Faces Bankruptcy Amid Legal Turmoil | AI News Digest

Published: October 16, 2025, 4:25 p.m. Entertainment Negative

Dr. Phil McGraw's conservative media initiative, Merit Street Media, is facing considerable upheaval, leading to a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing amid a $500 million lawsuit from former collaborator Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN). Launched in 2023 to serve conservative viewers, the network has struggled financially, resulting in widespread layoffs and the termination of crucial partnerships. TBN has accused McGraw of fraud and breach of contract, citing unmet commitments related to content and revenue forecasts. In spite of these challenges, McGraw is reportedly pursuing a new venture, Envoy Media, in an effort to rejuvenate his media presence. Analysts in the industry believe that while the bankruptcy could provide an opportunity for reorganization, the harm to McGraw's reputation may have enduring repercussions for his future endeavors in the media landscape.

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