Steve’s full name is Broderick Stephen Harvey, he born in West Virginia in 1957 and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. Steve Harvey’s story is full of determined perseverance and pure talent. His mantra to success is, earn honest income and inculcate strong values through faith and hard work.
The Comic Genius
His comedy journey began in the 1980s when Steve’s comedic talent emerged but prior to that he had embarked on a career in insurance sales but his calling and deeper yearn to make people laugh was irresistible. His signature style with a blend of observational humor, relatable stories and captivating stage presence quickly gained his audience attention.
His first standup comedy was in 1985 at “Hilarities Comedy Club” in Cleveland, Ohio. Like many others whose bravery led them to walk the road less travelled, in the late 1980s he became homeless for 3 years and was left no alternative but to sleep in his car and bathe in gas stations and public swimming pools.
From Stand-Up Stages to National Recognition
By the early 1990s, Steve Harvey was a rising star in the comedy scene. He landed coveted spots on shows like “The Johnnie Walker National Comedy Search” and HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam,” showcasing his talent to a wider audience. This period also saw his involvement in the iconic “Kings of Comedy” tour alongside Bernie Mac, Cedric the Entertainer, and D.L. Hughley, further solidifying his comedic influence.
The Master of Ceremonies
Steve Harvey’s charisma translates perfectly to television hosting. From the iconic “Showtime at the Apollo” to the wildly popular “Family Feud” – both regular and celebrity editions, Harvey’s energy and wit has kept his audiences engaged or glued to their screens. His signature catchphrases “Survey says!” and playful interactions with contestants make him a master of ceremonies.
Acting and writing
But Harvey had only just begun. He explored deeper realms of his talent thereby developing his acting and writing skills. Later, he started his own show “The Steve Harvey Show”, which proved a phenomenal success, enhanced and seasoned with his comedic talent. However, his penchant for stand-up and hosting never waned.
The Evolution of a Television Icon
Harvey’s comedic prowess translated seamlessly to television. He took the helm of “Showtime at the Apollo” in the late 1990s, breathing new life into the legendary program with his infectious energy and signature catchphrases. This success paved the way for a string of successful hosting gigs, while “The Steve Harvey Show,” ran for six seasons.
A Heart for Giving Back
Steve Harvey’s success extends beyond entertainment. Recognizing the importance of education for youth, he donned his philanthropic hat and co-founded The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation with his wife. The main goal of this organization is to provide educational opportunities and mentorship programs for youth, which demonstrates the depth of his commitment and a keen awareness of social responsibility.
The Legacy of Steve Harvey
Steve Harvey has worked assiduously to manifest his purpose and in so doing was able to lift himself from homelessness to a net worth of $200 million. Harvey’s philanthropy and spirituality are deeply intertwined, reflecting his commitment to giving back through his strong faith.
Harvey, through the Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation, has supported broad based initiatives that focus on mentoring and educational opportunities for underprivileged youth, promoting values of leadership and resilience. His spirituality, rooted in his Christian faith, is a cornerstone of his life and work, guiding his philanthropic efforts and his public persona. Harvey often speaks about the importance of faith, gratitude, and divine purpose, attributing his success to a higher power and encouraging others to find strength in spirituality.
