Dr. Phil's faux pas
 
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Dr. Phil
(Paramount Television)
By Sheigh Crabtree and Patrick Kevin Day, Los Angeles Times Staff Writers

Former Texas footballer Dr. Phil was never a McSaintly, known for his gentle bedside manner or altruism. The celebrity therapist gives advice — unadorned, straight-talking, tough-guy counsel. Yet, lately, in his pursuit of TV ratings and exclusives, Dr. Phil is quickly going from an intrusive McPesky to an opportunistic McQuacky, all too eager to stage confessional sessions and unwanted interventions while the cameras are rolling. But why be surprised now? Dr. Phil has a long habit of playing it fast and loose.