20 Lesser- known facts about Steve Harvey That Will Surprise You

20 Lesser- Known Facts About Steve Harvey That Will Surprise You

Broderick Stephen Harvey Sr is an American television host, producer, actor, and comedian born on 17th January 1957. He hosts shows like The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Family Feud, Celebrity Family Feud, Family Feud Africa, and the arbitration-based court comedy judge Steve Harvey. He started his career as a stand-up comedian in the early 1980s.

Along the way to success, Steve has tried many things such as boxing, insurance salesman, carpet cleaner, and a mail carrier among many others. Other than stand-up comedy, Steve Harvey is an author. He has written four books one of them being “Act Like a Lady, and Think Like a Man” which became his best-sold book. He is currently married to Marjorie Bridges and a father of seven children. This article is going to discuss 20 lesser-known facts about Steve Harvey that most people don’t know and will surprise them.

1. Steve Harvey has Cleveland Roots

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Steve Harvey was born in Welch, West Virginia on 17th January 1957. His family later moved to Cleveland, Ohio where they lived on East 112th Street which was later renamed in 2015 to be Steve Harvey Way. His Cleveland roots run deep and have played a critical role in shaping him into the successful man he is today.

Cleveland’s working-class spirit and diverse community instilled in Harvey values of humor, resilience, and a strong work ethic that he carries to this day. Although he did not graduate, he got some jobs while still at Cleveland such as Ford Motor Company and Lincoln Electric. The experiences provided him with valuable skills that later on helped him in life. He has severally credited his Cleveland upbringing with his grounded nature and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

2. Steve Harvey had a Severe Stuttering Problem

Harvey explains how he had a severe stuttering problem as a child and he later overcame it. This condition affected him as it came with isolation, fear in social situations, and anxiety. School at that time was his most difficult place to be. When he was in grade six, when doing his assignment he stated that when he grew up he wanted to be on TV. 

His teacher thought his dream was unrealistic due to his severe stutter. She ridiculed Harvey in front of the class and called his parents to report that he was being a “Smart aleck”. Despite the ridicule, Harvey never gave up on his dream. He found refuge in humor using it to deflect from his anxieties and connect with others.

3. Steve Harvey was Once a Boxer

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Before gaining Comedy fame, Steve Harvey pursued a career in boxing and he was doing so well. He spent many years chasing knockouts in the boxing ring. He was so serious about this career that he racked up an impressive 80 amateur fights during his boxing career. His dedication paid off when he won the prestigious Golden Gloves Championship showcasing his skills and dedication to the sport.

The boxing career and experiences instilled in him discipline, resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure skills that later helped him in the entertainment industry.  He had a great passion for boxing so he practiced harder, respected the sport, and achieved significant wins.

4. Steve Harvey was Once an Insurance Salesman

Before joining the entertainment industry, Steve spent years pitching policies as an insurance salesman. All this he was doing as a hustle to get money and pay off his bills just like any human being. He perfected his communication skills, learned how to connect and interact with people, and also developed a knack for persuasion skills which later helped him in his stand-up comedy career.

His experiences while still an insurance salesman, navigating clients’ needs and handling objections became s treasure trove of comedic material. It also helped him to toughen up because as a salesman you handle rejection and you have to keep going.

5. Steve Harvey was a Radio Pioneer for Black Americans

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Steve was the first Black American to host a nationally syndicated radio show. He provided a platform that showcased the perspectives and experiences of black Americans contributing to a more diverse representation in the media landscape. His success on the radio proves his status as a multi-talented entertainer. He paved the way for other Black voices in radio and helped diversify the medium.

6. Steve Harvey is a Fashion Designer

Steve Harvey is indeed a fashion designer. In 2018, he launched his menswear line known as “H by Steve Harvey”. The line focuses on timeless, elegant pieces for men of all ages, reflecting his style and desire to “Look and feel their best”.

The line emphasizes quality materials, classic Silhouettes, and tailored fits. It caters to a range of occasions from casual to formal, by offering shirts, trousers, accessories, and jackets. Over the years, he has expanded his collection.

7. Steve Harvey is an Early Riser

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Steve Harvey is an early riser. It is a well-documented aspect of his daily routine and it has played a big role in his success. One time in an interview, he explained how for the longest time now he wakes up at 3:30 AM. At this time he starts reflecting, planning, and getting ahead of the day’s hustle.

He clearly stated that he uses those early hours to exercise, meditate, read, write, and plan his schedule.  At this time the mind is so fresh that he can tackle most of the things without disturbance. Being an early riser is credited as it boosts productivity.

8. Steve Harvey is a Clean Freak

Steve Harvey is well known for his love of a tidied-up space. He spends his early morning getting ready to start the day by tidying things up, setting the tone for a day surrounded by order. His love for cleanliness extends to the organization from labeled shelves to color-coded closets.

9. Steve Harvey is a Big Fan of Country Music

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Steve Harvey is a big fan of country music which is a fact people don’t know.  Before moving to Cleveland, Ohio he spent his childhood in West Virginia a state with a rich country music heritage. This exposed him to music at an early age and that is why till today he appreciates Country music.

He has openly expressed how he admires some legendary country music artists like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton and has also used their songs on talk shows and interviews.  At one time he hosted a show featuring country music talents where big bands performed.

10. Steve Harvey is Big on Family

Steve Harvey is a family man. He credits his family as a source of motivation, support, and grounding. He has a large blended family of seven children from his previous relationship and with his current wife, Marjorie Bridges. He takes his role as a both husband, father, and grandfather seriously by offering support and guidance.

He encourages open communication within his family. Besides his personal life, he actively advocates for strong families and healthy relationships by navigating family dynamics through his shows, books, and motivational talks.  He also shares his experiences and challenges of having a blended family and encourages open communication about family issues.

11. Steve Harvey Having Second Chances in Love

Harvey has been married three times and has seven children. His first marriage was with Marcia Harvey in 1981 and divorced in 1994 they were blessed with three kid’s two daughters (Twins) and a son (Broderick Harvey Jr.) in 1996, he married Mary Shackelford and they had one son called Wynton and they divorced in 2005.

 In 2007 he married Marjorie Bridges who he says is responsible for making him a better man and changing his life. Marjorie is a mother of three sons all of whom Steve adopted. Their relationship is an inspiration to many proving that love can bloom at any age.

12. Steve Harvey is a Motivational Speaker

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Beyond comedy, Steve Harvey is also a successful motivational speaker. He draws on his own experiences, failures, and lessons learned to motivate and inspire audiences. His themes often revolve around personal growth, relationships, career success, and achieving one’s potential.

He reminds people to set goals, self-reflection, and overcome challenges with resilience and optimism. His motivation works beyond live events. He has authored several bestselling books, hosts podcasts, and delivers online motivational content that reaches a global audience. His lectures inspire people to achieve their goals and live their best lives

13. Steve Harvey is an Improv Master

Steve Harvey’s comedic genius extends far beyond scripted routines. He is a well-known master of improv with a quick wit that keeps his audiences on the edge of their seats. His improvement journey began early in his career, performing in comedy clubs and honing his ability to think on his feet.

Other than stand-up, he took part in improv groups and even hosted improv comedy shows hence refining his ability to create spontaneous humor in a collaborative setting. Also, his interview segments and talk show appearances are a testament to his improvisational skills.

14. Steve Harvey is a Chess Enthusiast

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I know for a big part this is a lesser-known fact about Steve. He has a passion for chess. This game helps him to sharpen his mind. He enjoys the intellectual exercise and sees it as a way to keep his mind sharp and focused. While he plays the game with his friends, he has also participated in chess tournaments showing his dedication and a spirit of competition.

He credits chess for helping him learn how to focus, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking. Such kind of skills have helped him in his career by either navigating complex business deals or crafting comedy routines.

15. Steve Harvey’s Love for Dancing

It’s funny how Steve Harvey’s dance moves on the stage are the subject of internet memes. He is a lover of dancing and has even participated in “Dancing with the Stars” he incorporates dancing into his shows, playfully engaging the audience and embracing the lighthearted fun of letting loose.

His dance moves however much they funny give him so much confidence. He laughs at himself because of the moves and never takes himself too seriously.  According to him, he dances to relieve stress and also boost his mood.

16. Steve Harvey Philanthropic Efforts

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Steve is known for many things one of them being his philanthropic efforts. In 2010, he founded the Steve Harvey Foundation which focuses on youth empowerment and mentorship. The foundation was established to provide educational scholarships, mentoring programs, and career development opportunities for underserved youth.

He is also the founder of the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation, an organization that provides youth outreach services. He also partners with Walt Disney World Resort and Essence for the Disney Dreamers Academy, a yearly workshop at Walt Disney World for 100 students.

17. Steve Harvey is an Animal Advocate

Steve Harvey is a big animal advocate. He uses his platform and his resources to champion the welfare of furry friends.  Both in interviews and his shows, he openly speaks out against animal cruelty and neglect and helps raise awareness on important issues like endangered species and responsible pet ownership. He has participated in fundraising events and promoted the work of various animal welfare organizations.

18. Steve Harvey Is a Christian

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Steve Harvey is a Christian of strong faith. He frequently speaks about his Christian faith in interviews, talks, and also on his comedy shows. His faith is a source of strength, guidance, and inspiration in his life. He emphasizes values like forgiveness, gratitude, and charity drawing on biblical teachings to inform his outlook on life and relationships.

19. Steve Harvey is an Avid Reader

Beyond the jokes and laughter, Steve finds intellectual and personal growth through reading. He is an avid reader with a genuine passion for books. Reading is not a recent hobby to him, it has been a constant presence throughout his life. He credits reading with shaping his worldview and expanding his knowledge. He frequently recommends books on his platforms and talks about how they have impacted him in so many ways.

20. Steve Harvey on Acting

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Before stand-up comedy fame, Harvey dipped his toes into acting. He got roles in Sitcoms like “The King of Queens” and “Family Matters” showing his charisma and comedic timing. He also ventured into films by starring in comedies like “The Fighting Temptations” and “Think Like a Man” where he took characters that resonated with audiences.

Conclusion

Any successful person you meet has another side and things he/she has endured to get where they are. Steve Harvey is a real definition of believing in your dreams and staying to yourself despite the challenges and criticism you face along the way. He is a true definition of patience, persistence, and hard work.