Steve Harvey is an Emmy Award-winning entertainer, radio personality, motivational speaker, New York Times best-selling author, businessman, and philanthropist. Known for his distinctive style, humor, and inspirational messages, Harvey has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.

Harvey was the son of Jesse Harvey, a coal miner, and Eloise Vera Harvey, a Sunday school teacher. Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, Harvey knew from a young age that he wanted to be on TV. Despite facing the challenges of stuttering as a young African American boy in the 1960s, Harvey held onto his dreams. His perseverance and faith became central to his philosophy: “You have to dream big and believe that you will succeed.” Before achieving fame, Harvey made a promise to God that if he succeeded, he would always express his gratitude—a commitment he honors by thanking God at the end of every show.

Harvey’s foray into comedy began in 1985 when he took a leap of faith and performed at an open mic comedy night. His success that evening led him to quit his job and pursue a career in comedy. However, the path to success was far from easy. Harvey faced homelessness, living in his car while traveling across the country for performances. His big break came in 1990 when he won a national comedy competition, leading to his hosting role on Showtime at the Apollo, which marked the start of his illustrious career.

Steve Harvey’s comedy career soared in the late 1990s, notably as one of the Kings of Comedy alongside Cedric the Entertainer, Bernie Mac, and D.L. Hughley. Their tour led to the highly successful special, The Original Kings of Comedy. Harvey continued to dominate the comedy scene with several popular DVDs and specials before retiring from stand-up in 2012 with a final performance at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

In addition to his comedy, Harvey became a household name through his television work. He hosted It’s Showtime at the Apollo, starred in The Steve Harvey Show, and hosted Family Feud, where he revitalized the show and became its longest-serving host. His hosting roles expanded internationally with shows like Miss Universe and Family Feud Africa. Harvey’s relatable and honest personality made him one of the most trusted figures in media.

Harvey also significantly impacted radio, beginning with The Steve Harvey Morning Show in 2000, which remains the most-listened-to syndicated morning show in America. As an author, Harvey has penned several New York Times best-sellers, including Act Like a Lady, and Think Like a Man, which inspired the hit movie Think Like a Man. His books, translated into 30 languages, continue to inspire readers worldwide.

Throughout his career, Harvey has received numerous accolades, including six Daytime Emmy Awards, 10 NAACP Image Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His work as a game show host, talk show host, and entertainer has been widely recognized, solidifying his place as one of the most influential personalities in entertainment.

In 2017, Harvey consolidated his various business ventures under Steve Harvey Global (SHG), a testament to his success and influence in Hollywood. Alongside his wife, Marjorie, Harvey founded The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation in 2010, which focuses on mentoring and providing resources to under-resourced communities. Their foundation impacts thousands of families yearly through education and financial assistance programs.

Steve and Marjorie Harvey are devoted to their blended family of seven children and seven grandchildren. For Harvey, family remains his proudest achievement, grounding his extensive career in love, faith, and service.