FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 19, 2009

CHICAGO — In his first national television interview, Ed Doud, father of Nadya Suleman and grandfather to her newborn octuplets , is speaking out about his daughter, her doctor and his new grandchildren in an Oprah Show exclusive Tuesday, February 24, 2009. Doud reveals how he found out his daughter was expecting at least seven babies and how he and his family are coping under the strain of intense public scrutiny. He also shares his insights on his daughter's history and personality, and viewers will see what brings this grandfather of 14 to tears.

Doud pulls no punches during the hour, calling both his daughter and her doctor "absolutely irresponsible." Asked by Oprah whether he believes his daughter is mentally stable, Doud pauses and offers, "That's a very good question." He continues, "Now I'm no psychiatrist, but I question her mental situation."

Asked about the website launched on behalf of Nadya and the octuplets that includes a place for public donations, Doud says: "You know what? She needs help. I say to everybody now, people, we do need help. Do not punish my daughter for what she has done and do not punish the babies, because they were given by God."

In the interview, Oprah asks the questions on Americans' minds: Why did Nadya do this? What was she like growing up and how is she holding up now? How will Doud, Nadya and her family support 14 children? Is the family in jeopardy of losing their home?

Then, Oprah and Doud are joined on stage by Dr. Oz, who offers his thoughts on the perplexing medical and ethical questions raised by Suleman's story . Says Dr. Oz, "This is a major failure in professionalism." And viewers also have their say, with passionate opinions pouring in from around the country.

Finally, Oprah asks Doud, "What is your greatest hope?" Responds Doud, "[To] stay healthy and have my grandchildren—all of them—to be healthy and the mother to finish her schooling and start working, and we all could support this family."

The Oprah Winfrey Show has remained the number one talk show for 22 consecutive seasons, winning every sweep since its debut in 1986.** It is produced in Chicago by Harpo Productions, Inc. and syndicated to 214 domestic stations by CBS Television Distribution Group and to 145 countries by CBS Paramount International Television.

Sources:
**Nielsen Cassandra Ranking Report - Nov'86 to July '99 and Wrap Sweeps, Nov '99 to July '08. Primary Telecasts Only.
Published 05/26/2009

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