MULTI-TALENTED ACTOR, COMEDIAN, RADIO PERSONALITY AND BEST-SELLING AUTHOR STEVE HARVEY NAMED NEW HOST OF "FAMILY FEUD"
(Burbank, CA � January 21, 2009) -- Multi-talented entertainer, author and radio personality Steve Harvey will become the new host of the daily, syndicated "Family Feud" when the long-running game show begins its 12th season next Fall, it was announced today by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of FremantleMedia North America, which produces the show.
"With his talent, authenticity and innate ability to connect with audiences from all walks of life, Steve exemplifies the spirit and appeal of 'Family Feud,'" said Frot-Coutaz in making the announcement. "We're thrilled to have him join our 'family' and look forward to him bringing his one-of-a-kind comedic style and personality to this beloved and legendary game show format."
"Steve Harvey is one of today's top comedians and a great addition to 'Family Feud'," said Ira Bernstein, co-president of distributor Debmar-Mercury. "He will be a great fit, leading this classic game show well into the future," added Debmar-Mercury Co-President, Mort Marcus.
Steve Harvey began his successful stand-up comedy career in the mid-80s, which led to a long stint as host of "It's Showtime at the Apollo," as well as multiple TV sitcoms, including "Me and The Boys" (ABC), "The Steve Harvey Show" (The WB) and "Steve Harvey Big Time Challenge" (The WB).
Throughout his television success, Harvey never lost sight of his true passion for stand-up comedy. In 1997, he went on tour as one of the successful "Kings of Comedy" alongside Cedric The Entertainer, the late Bernie Mac and D.L. Hughley, which led to the taping of one of the most successful comedy DVDs in history � "The Original Kings of Comedy" � directed by Spike Lee.
In 2006, Harvey released "Don't Trip� He Ain't Through With Me Yet," a family friendly DVD unlike anything he had ever done before, and "Still Trippin," for fans more used to his original, cutthroat, tell-it-like-it-is style of comedy.
Harvey also currently hosts his signature, syndicated radio talk show "Steve Harvey Morning Show," which is heard daily by over 7 million listeners in over 64 markets nationwide from 6-10 AM EST. The morning show has also allowed him to share relationship advice with his listeners through its "Strawberry Letter" segment, where he responds to relationship questions.
The overwhelming popularity of the "Strawberry Letter," led Harvey to write his first book entitled "Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man" (Harper Collins), released on January 27, 2009. The widely-acclaimed, #1 New York Times Best-Seller is Harvey's ultimate personal guide to unlocking the male mind, understanding his game, anticipating his moves and countering with unstoppable offense and defense. With his signature straight-talking insight and encouragement, "Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man" connected instantly with readers everywhere, selling over 1.7 million copies and selling worldwide in over 30 languages.
Harvey has appeared on numerous morning, talk, news and late night shows including "The Oprah Winfrey Show," "Nightline," "Good Morning America," "The Ellen Degeneres Show," "The Tyra Banks Show," "The Early Show," "Late Night with Conan O'Brien," "CNN" and "Larry King Live."
Taped in front of a live audience, "Family Feud" is produced by FremantleMedia North America and distributed by Debmar-Mercury. Gaby Johnston is executive producer. Jim Roush is executive in charge of production. Ken Fuchs is director.
FremantleMedia North America (FMNA) is the U.S. production division of global media giant FremantleMedia. Based in Burbank, California, FMNA produces entertaining and innovative programs for network, cable, syndicated and online platforms, including the Emmy-nominated musical/reality phenomenon "American Idol" (FOX), "America's Got Talent" (NBC), "Can You Duet" (CMT), "The Chilli Project" (MTV), "Secret Girlfriend" (Comedy Central), "Let's Make A Deal" (CBS), "Family Feud" (syndicated), and the longest-running game show in television history, "The Price Is Right" (CBS).
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