Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Steve Harvey Says Hosting New Year’s Eve Show is a ‘Rough Gig’

*Steve Harvey will be back in Times Square for New Year’s Eve to ring in 2020 on Fox with Maria Menounos, and guests The Lumineers, The Chainsmokers, Florida Georgia Line, The Backstreet Boys and possibly Jennifer Lopez, according to reports. 

Harvey is currently filming the first version of “Family Feud” in Africa, set to air in April 2020.

“I thought the cultural differences would lead to pretty funny stuff,” Harvey says of the new show. “Not being on NBC freed me up to think of something [new]. Not being on the talk show, I came up with the idea when I heard they were giving my time slot away [to Kelly Clarkson].”

Harvey has hosted the American version of “Family Feud” since 2010.

“Bringing Family Feud to Africa has long been a dream of mine,” he previously stated. “I believe Family Feud will become a household name for local South African and Ghanaian families. And this is just the beginning in Africa. I expect this show to lead to multiple media and business projects in and throughout the continent.”

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Meanwhile, The Post caught up with the comedian to dish about what it’s really like to host a New Year’s Eve show live on television. 

Below are excerpts from the conversation. 

Why do you like to work on New Year’s Eve?

I had stopped working as a stand-up on New Year’s Eve. It was such an iconic brand I had never owned. I took advantage of the offer from Fox. I thought it would be good for my brand. The first time was absolutely horrible. It was 11 below zero. Last year it rained all night. There’s nowhere to sit. It’s a rough gig. There are stretching rooms. You’re not allowed to bring trailers. I have a hotel room right there. The entire time you need some blankets and heaters.

Do you give Fox a wish list of possible guests? Do entertainers contact you during the calendar year and ask for a spot in the lineup?

I do not usually give Fox a wish list of guests, as they have been an amazing partner and do a wonderful job on bookings. I have started thinking about some good recommendations this year though and have been reaching out to them with my ideas.

What is it like to be in the middle of that horde of people? Are you intimidated?

It’s not intimidating. I am in awe at the energy of the people. Once you check into Times Square, you can’t leave. There are no restrooms. These people are wearing diapers and they go through the whole thing. They sit there and they deal with it. And you feel an obligation to be entertaining.

“Fox New Year’s Eve With Steve Harvey: Live From Times Square” airs at 8 p.m. Tuesday.

 

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