FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Los Angeles, CA – November 15, 2013) – Todd Herzog, who at age 22 became one of the youngest contestants to ever win the popular CBS reality program “Survivor,” is now in a battle for his life as he attempts to overcome an alcohol addiction so severe that it has him near death.  Family and friends of Herzog have brought him to Dr. Phil in a desperate attempt to save his life and hope it will result in the now 28-year-old agreeing to get help.  This emotional episode airs Monday, November 18, 2013 (check your local listings).

“I have never talked to a guest who has been this close to death,” said Dr. Phil, now in his 12th season hosting his namesake show and who has spoken to more than 10,000 guests on the program.  

Over the past few months, Herzog has been to the emergency room at least four times, registering blood alcohol levels of .557, .577 and .582.  Those numbers shocked the ER doctors who were amazed that Herzog was still alive. 

Dr. Phil will attempt to find out what has led to Herzog’s incredible daily alcohol intake of three one-liter bottles of vodka and what actions need to be taken in order to save the life of the “Survivor: China” winner.  While Herzog’s ability to cheat death has baffled doctors, his family is simply grateful that he’s still alive, but knows it won’t last long if he continues his extreme alcohol intake.  They are hoping that by bringing him on DR. PHIL, Herzog will be convinced to go to rehab.  If not, their fear is that he will certainly face death very soon. 

A clip from the show is available at: http://cbspressexpress.com/cbs-television-distribution/shows/dr-phil/video?watch=2cso7ipo2u

Above photo:  Dr. Phil McGraw and Todd Herzog. Photo is available in high resolution on CBS Press Express.

Credit footage and photo to: CBS Television Distribution/ Peteski Productions

The syndicated series, DR. PHIL, was created by Harpo Productions, and is produced by Peteski Productions in association with CBS Television Distribution.  DR. PHIL, now in its 12th season, is the #1 ranked syndicated daytime talk show, a position held since the conclusion of The Oprah Winfrey Show in May, 2011.