Quick Wiki
- Full Name Broderick Stephen Harvey Sr.
- Birth Date Jan 17, 1957
- Age 68 Years, 0 Months
- Nationality American
- Birthplace Welch, West Virginia
- Occupation Comedian, television host, actor, writer, and producer
- Mother Eloise Vera
- Father Jesse Harvey
- Father's Occupation A coal miner
- University Kent State University and West Virginia University
- Wife Marjorie Bridges
- Net Worth $200 million
- Ex-Spouses Marcia Harvey and Mary Shackelford
Steve Harvey | Biography
Steve Harvey is a renowned comedian, actor, and television host known for his standout work in stand-up comedy, hosting Family Feud, and authoring bestselling relationship books.
Who is Steve Harvey?
Steve Harvey is a multifaceted entertainer renowned for his dynamic career that spans stand-up comedy, television hosting, and writing. He first garnered attention in the entertainment industry through his stand-up performances, leading to a successful hosting stint on the iconic variety show, "Showtime at the Apollo". In the mid-1990s, Harvey solidified his status as a household name with his sitcom, "The Steve Harvey Show", which resonated with African American audiences and showcased his comedic prowess. His emergence as a leading figure in comedy was further amplified by his inclusion in Spike Lee's landmark documentary, "The Original Kings of Comedy", which captured the spirit of a comedy tour that became a cultural phenomenon.
Beyond combat, Steve Harvey has built a diverse media empire, highlighted by his long-standing role as the host of the game show "Family Feud". Since taking the helm in 2010, Harvey has captivated audiences with his wit and charm, making the show a staple of American television. In addition to his work in television, he has authored best-selling books, including "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man", which reflects his unique, comedic approach to relationship advice. Through his engaging persona, Harvey has established himself not just as a comedian but as a philanthropist, emphasizing the importance of family and mentorship through his foundation aimed at empowering young men.
Early Life and Education
Broderick Steven Harvey, known as Steve Harvey, was born on January 17, 1957, in Welch, West Virginia. He was the youngest of five children in a family that faced economic challenges. His father, Jesse Harvey, worked as a coal miner and dealt with health issues related to black lung disease, passing away in 2000. When Steve was very young, the family relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, where he would later attend Glenville High School, graduating in 1974. Harvey's upbringing in a close-knit family instilled in him resilience and determination, qualities that would serve him well in his future career.
After high school, Steve pursued higher education at West Virginia University. However, after a brief time there, Harvey dropped out and began a series of various jobs that included working as an insurance salesman and a postman. Despite these positions, Harvey struggled to find his true calling. His life took a significant turn in 1985 when he first performed stand-up comedy, marking the beginning of his journey towards becoming a household name. The combination of his early experiences and his passion for comedy played a crucial role in shaping Steve's future career as a comedian, actor, and television host.
The Start of His Career in Stand-Up Comedy
Steve Harvey began his career in stand-up comedy in the mid-1980s, a move that would prove to be his true calling after a series of unfulfilling jobs in various fields. His first performance took place in 1985, where he honed his comedic skills in small clubs across the country. By the end of the decade, his dedication and persistence led him to the finals of the Second Annual Johnnie Walker National Comedy Search in 1989. This exposure marked a critical turning point, helping him gain traction in the comedy scene and setting the stage for his future success.
In 1993, Harvey's breakthrough came when he became the host of the iconic variety show, Showtime at the Apollo. The show, filmed live at Harlem's legendary Apollo Theater, allowed Harvey to showcase his charisma and comedic timing, quickly endearing himself to audiences. His tenure on Showtime at the Apollo lasted until 2000, but he didn't stop there. In 1996, he launched his own sitcom, The Steve Harvey Show, which further solidified his status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, particularly within the African American community. This mix of stand-up and television appearances propelled Harvey into the national spotlight, ultimately leading to his participation in projects like The Original Kings of Comedy tour and film.
Rise to Fame with Showtime at the Apollo and The Steve Harvey Show
Steve Harvey's rise to fame began with his charismatic presence and unique comedic style on stage. In 1993, he became the host of the legendary variety show, Showtime at the Apollo, filmed at Harlem’s iconic Apollo Theater. His infectious energy and ability to connect with the audience smoothed the path to his success. Over the next seven years, Harvey not only entertained viewers with his comedic flair but also solidified his status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. This platform allowed him to reach a broader audience, showcasing his talent and paving the way for future opportunities.
Simultaneously, Harvey's star continued to shine with the launch of his sitcom, The Steve Harvey Show, in 1996. The show, which quickly resonated with fans, particularly within the African American community, further propelled Harvey into the spotlight. It ran for six successful seasons and ultimately became one of the WB network's standout shows. The sitcom's blend of humor and relatable storytelling made it a beloved fixture in American television, and it also ignited a fruitful partnership with comedian Cedric the Entertainer. This era marked a significant turning point in Harvey's career, establishing him as a household name and a beloved entertainer during the 1990s and early 2000s.
Achievements and Contributions to Comedy and Television
Steve Harvey is a multifaceted entertainer whose career spans decades in comedy and television. He initially made his mark in the stand-up comedy scene, breaking through in 1985 and quickly gaining recognition for his hilarious takes on everyday life. His big break came in the 1990s when he began hosting the iconic variety show "Showtime at the Apollo," where his charisma and connection with the audience propelled him into the national spotlight. Harvey's influence only grew through his successful sitcom, "The Steve Harvey Show," which resonated particularly with African American audiences and solidified his status as a household name.
One of Harvey's most notable achievements is his participation in "The Original Kings of Comedy," a tour that became the highest-grossing comedy tour in U.S. history at that time. This venture, along with its film adaptation in 2000, showcased not only his comedic prowess but also his ability to captivate large audiences. Beyond stand-up, Harvey expanded his media empire through his daily radio show, which provided relationship advice that endeared him to fans, resulting in best-selling self-help books like "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man." Today, he is widely recognized as the host of "Family Feud," where his quick wit and charm continue to engage viewers, further cementing his legacy in the world of entertainment.
Personal Life: Married Three Times and Children
Steve Harvey, a devoted family man, has experienced the ups and downs of love, having been married three times throughout his life. His first marriage produced twin daughters, Brandi and Karli, and a son, Broderick Jr., while his second marriage blessed him with a son named Wynton. Harvey's relationships have shaped his views on family and parenthood, leading him to emphasize the importance of being a responsible father. His experiences in marriage and fatherhood have heavily influenced his comedic style and views on relationships.
In 2007, Harvey married Marjorie Bridge, a union that blended their families together. Marjorie brought three children of her own into the marriage, creating a large, blended family that Steve is immensely proud of. Beyond his role as a husband and father, Harvey is also the founder of The Steve Harvey Foundation, which focuses on mentoring young men. This commitment to family and philanthropy reflects his desire to leave a meaningful legacy and contribute positively to society. As he navigated the challenges and joys of family life, Harvey has grown into a role model for many, demonstrating the significance of love, responsibility, and giving back.
Net Worth and Earning: Steve Harvey's Financial Success
Steve Harvey has built an impressive financial portfolio throughout his multifaceted career in comedy, television, and radio. As of 2023, his estimated net worth stands at approximately $200 million. This financial success stems from various income streams, including his long-running hosting duties on “Family Feud,” which earned him a reported salary of over $10 million annually. Additionally, his daytime talk shows, books, and stand-up comedy performances have contributed significantly to his wealth, showcasing his ability to tap into multiple entertainment sectors effectively.
Harvey is also a savvy entrepreneur, having capitalized on his fame with ventures that extend beyond traditional media. His bestselling relationship advice book, “Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man,” turned into a lucrative film and ventured into merchandise, further diversifying his income sources. Furthermore, his hosting appearances on various shows have enhanced his public profile, helping to secure sponsorship deals and endorsements. Harvey's financial success is attributed not only to his considerable talents but also to his strategic business acumen and understanding of audience engagement across diverse platforms.