Steve Harvey's Full Biography
Steve Harvey is a well-known American comedian, television host, and author whose career has spanned across various forms of entertainment. His journey to fame has been marked by resilience, versatility, and a knack for making people laugh. Here is a closer look at his life and accomplishments.
Early Life and Education
Born as Broderick Stephen Harvey on January 17, 1957, in Welch, West Virginia, Steve Harvey's early life was rooted in a working-class family. His parents, Eloise Vera and Jesse Harvey, named him after the famous actor Broderick Crawford. However, his childhood was not without challenges as he struggled with a stutter, a hurdle he later overcame.
Harvey's educational journey took him to Glenville High School in Cleveland, Ohio, where his family had relocated during his childhood. He later attended Kent State University and West Virginia University, although he did not complete his degree, a decision he has expressed regret about in hindsight.
Career
1980s
Steve Harvey's career didn't kick off in comedy right away. In the early years after leaving college, he worked in various professions, including as a postal deliverer, boxer, carpet cleaner, and even an insurance salesman. It wasn't until 1985 that he took the stage for the first time as a stand-up comedian at the Hilarities Comedy Club in Cleveland, Ohio. While he is now renowned for his comedic talents, his journey to stardom was far from instantaneous. In fact, he faced several years of struggles, including periods of homelessness when he couldn't afford a hotel room.
1990s
A turning point in Steve Harvey's entertainment career came with the Second Annual Johnnie Walker National Comedy Search. He became a finalist in the competition and was subsequently offered the opportunity to host "It's Showtime at the Apollo," starting in 1993. Throughout the decade, he continued to host the show, but he also starred in his own sitcom, "The Steve Harvey Show," which ran from 1996 to 2002. Additionally, Harvey joined the "Kings Of Comedy Tour" alongside Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, and Bernie Mac in 1997.
2000s
In 2000, Steve Harvey ventured into radio, hosting his own program called "The Steve Harvey Morning Show." This decade also saw Harvey host his first competition-based television program, "Steve Harvey's Big Time Challenge," which was a variety program where contestants showcased unique talents for a chance at a cash prize. Furthermore, he made appearances in several movies, including "The Fighting Temptations," "Love Don’t Cost A Thing," and "You Got Served." Harvey even lent his voice to a character named Buzz, a horsefly, in the movie "Racing Stripes." In 2009, he released a relationship advice book titled "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man."
2010s
One of the defining moments of the 2010s was Steve Harvey taking on the role of the host for "Family Feud." The show involved contestant families competing against each other to guess the most popular answers to survey questions. He also began hosting the celebrity version of the show, where prize winnings were donated to charities chosen by the celebrity contestants. In 2013, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
However, 2015 brought both fame and controversy when Harvey was chosen to host the Miss Universe beauty pageant. It became infamous when he mistakenly announced the wrong contestant as the winner. Harvey apologized profusely, both in person and on social media. Despite the gaffe, he was invited to host the pageant again in the subsequent years, including 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021.
In 2017, he launched Steve Harvey Global (SHG), a company that manages his various businesses, including his production company and Steve Harvey Events.
2020s
In the ongoing decade, Steve Harvey has continued to host his radio show and "Family Feud." He also ventured into a new television program called "Judge Steve Harvey," which focuses on courtroom arbitration.
Business Ventures
Steve Harvey is actively involved in various business and philanthropic ventures. He owns a production company called East One Twelve, which holds international rights to "Family Feud," including an African version announced in 2020. He also established the annual Sand and Soul Festival, which debuted in 2017. In addition, Harvey launched Harvey Events, a company run by his daughter and son-in-law.
Personal Life
Relationships
Steve Harvey has had three marriages. His first marriage was to Marcia Harvey, beginning in 1980. However, the marriage faced challenges, and Harvey left while his wife was pregnant with their third child in 1990, although the divorce did not occur until a few years later. They share three children together, twin girls named Brandi and Karli, and a son, Broderick Jr.
His second marriage was to Mary Lee Harvey, who brought a son from a previous relationship, giving Harvey his first stepchild. They also had one child together, a son named Wynton, before divorcing in 2005. Steve Harvey's current wife, who is Marjorie Bridges, a fashion blogger who had three children from her previous relationships. Harvey adopted all three stepchildren – Morgan, Jason, and Lori.
Religion
Steve Harvey is a Christian and has expressed conservative beliefs on various occasions, including those regarding gender roles.
Net Worth
Steve Harvey has accumulated a substantial net worth estimated to be around $200 million.
Jobs
He continues to host game shows, appear on other television programs, and maintain his radio show. Additionally, he has authored multiple books.
Activism
Steve Harvey launched the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation, which focuses on assisting underprivileged children, including hosting an annual camp for kids without fathers.
Controversies
Despite his successful career, Steve Harvey has faced criticism for expressing controversial views on gender and social norms. He has made jokes that were deemed racist, homophobic, and sexist. Notably, during the Flint, Michigan water crisis, he made a tasteless remark to a caller from Flint. These controversies have led to public backlash and debates about his comments and humor.
