Born in Welch in 1957, Broderick Stephen Harvey began a multifaceted entertainment career that transitioned from stand-up stages to global television production. After struggling through years of homelessness in the 1980s, he achieved prominence as a radio personality and game show host, eventually overseeing an extensive portfolio of media ventures and non-profit initiatives under the Steve Harvey Global brand.
Early Development and Comedy Roots
Raised as the youngest of five children by a coal miner father and his mother Eloise Vera, Harvey attended Glenville High School before enrolling at Kent State University and West Virginia University. He initially worked as a boxer, mailman, and carpet cleaner. His debut as a stand-up comedian occurred on October 8, 1985, at the Hilarities Comedy Club in Cleveland. During a three-year period of homelessness, he relied on gas stations for hygiene while performing at venues that offered lodging. His breakthrough arrived as a finalist in the 1990 Johnnie Walker National Comedy Search.
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Harvey hosted It's Showtime at the Apollo and starred in the sitcom The Steve Harvey Show on The WB network between 1996 and 2002. In 1997, he toured with Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, and Bernie Mac, a series later adapted into the Spike Lee film The Original Kings of Comedy. Since 2000, he has hosted The Steve Harvey Morning Show. His film credits include roles in The Fighting Temptations, Johnson Family Vacation, and a voice role in Racing Stripes.
Game Show Host and Literary Success
In 2010, Harvey began hosting Family Feud, a role that contributed to his receipt of multiple Daytime Emmy Awards, including wins in 2014, 2017, and 2018 for Outstanding Game Show Host. Beyond the stage, he authored the 2009 bestseller Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man, which inspired the 2012 film Think Like a Man. His work as a presenter further extended to Celebrity Family Feud, Judge Steve Harvey, and the Miss Universe competition.
Business Ventures and Philanthropy
In 2017, he established Steve Harvey Global, the parent company for his production firm East 112. His business activities include an African edition of Family Feud and investments in Anthem Sports and Entertainment. Alongside his wife, Marjorie, he operates The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation, which prioritizes youth education. In 2013, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and in 2022, he was honored with the Golden Plate Award.
Fast facts
- Born: 1957, Welch, West Virginia
- First stand-up performance: 8 October 1985
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star: 2013
- Daytime Emmy wins for game show hosting: 2014, 2017, 2018
- Education: Kent State University; West Virginia University
- Notable book: Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man (2009)
- Philanthropic organization: The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation
Questions readers ask
What was Steve Harvey's final stand-up comedy performance?
He performed his final stand-up act on August 2, 2012, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
Did Steve Harvey graduate from college?
No, he attended Kent State University but did not complete his degree.
Achievements
- Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Game Show Host — 2014
- Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Informative — 2015
- Worked as stand-up comedian, film producer and television producer
