New York City is suing Jordan McGraw, the son of TV personality Dr. Phil McGraw, to prevent him from releasing footage showing behind-the-scenes NYPD operations. City officials say the material could pose “life-threatening” risks to officers.
Unusual Access Granted
Nine months before leaving office, Mayor Eric Adams gave McGraw rare access to follow NYPD officers on duty. The plan was for him to produce a multi-episode series called “Behind the Badge.”
The deal drew criticism. Adams approved it over the objections of Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Sources say Adams wanted to arrange without the NYPD’s input.
Lawsuit Details
On Wednesday, Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s City Law Department filed suit against McGraw and his production company. The complaint claims the footage exposes undercover officers, witnesses, crime victims, and people in custody. Some scenes even show a secret station house passcode.
City lawyers argue McGraw ignored a contract clause allowing the city to review rough cuts and veto any portions that might threaten safety or confidentiality. McGraw submitted four rough-cut episodes and a larger set of unedited footage in December. He reportedly planned to sell the content in 2026 despite repeated city objections.
Safety and Reputation Concerns
The city calls the footage “extremely problematic.” Officials warn that releasing it could endanger active police officers and harm the NYPD’s reputation.
McGraw’s attorney, Chip Babcock, countered that the lawsuit seeks to restrict information on a matter of public interest. He said prior restraints are generally considered unconstitutional under the First Amendment.
Adams’ Response
Former Mayor Adams praised McGraw’s work. He said the series “reveals the inside story of the dangers NYPD officers face every day” and that the production addressed city concerns. Adams called the officers “heroes” and expressed hope the public would see their story.
Background on McGraw’s Production
McGraw registered “Behind the Badge LLC” in September 2024. Sources say the project was connected to Adams’ 2025 re-election campaign, which paid $500,000 to a firm linked to McGraw. The campaign filings did not disclose McGraw’s identity, raising questions with government watchdogs.
Dr. Phil also reportedly encouraged the project and appeared with Adams in 2025 to discuss antisemitism, taking credit for connecting Adams with Trump’s border czar.
