Dr. Phil McGraw’s news and entertainment media network Merit Street Media premiers today with a national reach of more than 80 million homes, making it “the largest network TV launch in decades,” the company said.
Merit Street, which broadcasts from studios in the AllianceTexas development in North Fort Worth, said the backbone of its media presence is its TV network, established in partnership with Trinity Broadcasting Network. The fully distributed, cable, satellite, and free over-the-air broadcast media brand is extending its initial reach with today’s full rollout.
We first told you about the network’s looming launch in November.
The launch is made possible through broadly scaled distribution partnerships, encompassing a mix of broadcast, cable, national satellite, and FAST (Free Ad-Supported Television) channel platforms, Merit Street said.
Cable and satellite subscribers can watch Merit Street Media across multiple platforms, including DIRECTV, DISH, and U-verse TV, as well as on Xfinity/Comcast viewers in Pittsburgh, Boston, Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington, D.C. Additionally, more than 40 local broadcast stations nationwide carry Merit Street Media.
Merit Street Media said that later this month, it will also become available exclusively on FAST through a partnership with Samsung TV Plus, the leader in free, smart TV content innovation. Merit Street Media said that rollout will begin in 20 million homes on Samsung Smart TVs—the first FAST platform to offer Dr. Phil content—and will continue across millions of additional user homes and devices over the coming months.
Programming headliners
The network’s premiere week of programming for April 2, 2024 includes, per Merit Street:
“Morning on Merit Street” (Live, Weekdays 8-10 AM ET): A “fresh approach” to the morning news that combines information, enlightenment, entertainment, and inspiration.
“Crime Stories with Nancy Grace” (Weeknights 6-7 PM ET): Nancy Grace, the “outspoken and passionate” former prosecutor, explores the inside stories of true crimes—ripped from today’s headlines— as well as cold cases waiting for new leads.
“The News on Merit Street” (Live, Weeknights 7-8 PM ET): Takes a comprehensive approach to the day’s top headlines.
“Dr. Phil Primetime” (Weeknights 8-9 PM ET): April topics include the rise of antisemitism in America, DEI, teachers in danger from their students, extreme parenting, how China is threatening American life, and a two-part special where Dr. Phil personally visits the border at Eagle Pass to investigate the immigration crisis.
More information on programming, the schedule, and the network is available here.
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R E A D N E X T
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In March, after 21 seasons, Dr. Phil McGraw announced the end of his daytime platform "Dr. Phil." His new network, Merit Street Media, will be anchored by "Dr. Phil Primetime," set to premiere on Feb. 26. Dozens of longtime "Dr. Phil" staffers have relocated their families to Texas for the project, the network said.
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