Dr. Phil’s new channel in the war with Taban is under the shadow of bankruptcy.
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Sudden Filing
Dr. Phil McGraw’s cable venture, Merit Street Media, has voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, shocking fans and industry insiders.
The filing came this week in Texas as his dispute with Christian broadcast giant Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) escalates.
Not giving up
Legal problems notwithstanding, sources close to McGraw say he is not giving up.
“Dr. Phil is fully committed to the network’s future and his employees,” one insider said.
“He remains focused and energized—and as always, he is supportive of his team.”
Real Reason for Conflict
The bankruptcy filing is not just paperwork—it is also a lawsuit against TBN and TCT Ministries.
Merit Street’s complaint is clear, claiming that TBN “misused its position” and placed “unsustainable debt” of “more than $100 million” on the new network.
Worst of all, according to the filing, TBN stopped distribution payments such that Merit Street “was left with no place to send its broadcast signal.”
The dream that got shattered
Merit Street Media launched just a few months ago in April 2024, after McGraw left the 21-season daytime talk show.
The network was part of McGraw’s next chapter, which included his primetime return and shows with Nancy Grace and former Bachelor host Chris Harrison.
“This is our network,” McGraw excitedly announced last November. “It will fully showcase what’s important to you.”
Standing with the leader
Those who know McGraw praise his integrity despite the setbacks.
“He’s one of the kindest and dedicated people,” the source emphasized.
“A man who clearly cares and always leads with integrity.”
What’s next?
The goal of the bankruptcy appears to be to save the Merit Street brand rather than shut it down.
Although the network’s future remains unclear, McGraw’s determination suggests this chapter of the television veteran’s successful career is not the end.
The network now shows live sports and entertainment specials, along with “Dr. Phil Primetime,” crime programming, and reruns of McGraw’s classic episodes.