Steve Harvey, the charismatic face of television hosting, has built an impressive empire over three decades, touching all sides of showbiz from radio to comedy to new ventures as a judge. He’s come a long way from his original comedy career that began in the ’80s, eventually finding his footing in the world of television hosting. Viewers widely recognize him as the host of “Family Feud,” “Miss Universe,” “The Steve Harvey Morning Show,” and as the author of the bestselling book “Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man.”
However, beneath the polished public image and the infectious laughter, a closer look at Harvey’s career reveals a trail of controversies and “sketchy” moments that many seem to conveniently overlook. Despite his success and widespread appeal, a series of incidents—ranging from deeply personal relationship dramas and significant legal disputes to questionable public statements and on-air gaffes—have cast a shadow over his carefully cultivated brand. These events highlight a fascinating dichotomy between the public persona he projects and the persistent allegations that have followed him throughout his journey.
In a world where celebrity scandals often fade from memory as quickly as they emerge, we’re diving deep into some of the most eyebrow-raising aspects of Steve Harvey’s past and present. Get ready to explore the less-talked-about incidents that add complex layers to the narrative of this entertainment icon, reminding us that even the most beloved figures have moments they’d rather keep out of the spotlight.
1. **Standing by a Disgraced Mentor: The Bill Cosby Defense**As a veteran in the comedy industry, it’s no surprise that Steve Harvey and Bill Cosby have crossed paths, with Harvey even citing “The Cosby Show” alum as his longtime mentor. This connection became a point of significant controversy when Cosby faced multiple charges of sexual assault, leading to his conviction in 2018. Over 50 women came forward from 2014 onwards, accusing the actor of drugging, rape, and various sexual misconducts during his career, fundamentally changing Cosby’s public image from “America’s Dad” to a convicted sex offender.
Despite the overwhelming number of accusations and Cosby’s conviction, Harvey publicly revealed in 2017 that he would continue to stand by his fellow comedian. He told The Hollywood Reporter, “I haven’t talked to him in a few months, but when I’m your friend, I’m your friend.” Harvey recounted a conversation with Cosby, who reportedly told him to “just stay away from me right now. You don’t need none of this on you,” a statement Harvey characterized as “an amazing thing for a guy to say.”
This unwavering loyalty raised eyebrows, especially given the severity and volume of the allegations against Cosby. While other stars from “The Cosby Show,” like Phylicia Rashad and Keshia Knight Pulliam, also voiced support, Harvey’s public declaration added him to the list of those who stood by Cosby amidst the scandal. Even after Cosby’s release from prison in 2021 due to his conviction being overturned by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, new lawsuits have continued to emerge as recently as June 2023, underscoring the ongoing legal and moral complexities of the situation that Harvey has chosen to navigate with staunch allegiance.
2. **A History of Alleged Infidelity in His Relationships**Steve Harvey’s personal life, particularly his marital history, has been a frequent subject of public scrutiny and has long been shadowed by allegations of infidelity. His first marriage was to Marcia Harvey in 1980, a period when his comedy career was beginning to blossom. This burgeoning career reportedly caused significant tension in their marriage, leading to their separation in 1990—the year before their third child was born—and an eventual divorce in 1994, after 14 years together and three children.
Reports from the time suggest that even before his official split from Marcia was finalized, Harvey began living with his future second wife, Mary Shackelford. This overlapping timeline fueled early accusations of infidelity. He and Mary tied the knot in 1996 and welcomed one son, but their marriage also ended in divorce in 2005. The contentious nature of this split would later bring these allegations back to the forefront, as Mary Shackelford made them public.
Following their divorce, Shackelford publicly alleged that Harvey had stepped out on her with his current wife, Marjorie. Since 2007, Harvey has been married to Marjorie Harvey, and their union has also faced scrutiny, with rumors swirling in August 2023 that Marjorie had cheated on Harvey with the family’s security guard and chef. Harvey swiftly denied these allegations at a comedy show, telling the audience his marriage was doing just “fine,” yet the persistent pattern of infidelity claims from previous marriages continues to be a recurring theme in discussions about his personal life.
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3. **The Unpaid Private Jet Alterations Lawsuit**In 2015, Steve Harvey found himself embroiled in a legal dispute over unpaid expenses for private jet alterations, an incident that added a financial “sketch” to his public image. USA Today reported that an aircraft company, Business Aircraft Leasing Inc., sued Harvey for a staggering $205,040 in unpaid bills. The core of the issue stemmed from Harvey’s desire to lease a Gulfstream jet, for which he reportedly requested extensive customizations totaling $400,000 before finalizing the lease agreement.
These requested modifications were far from minor; they included significant changes such as the removal of two seats and a complete redecoration of the plane’s interior to suit his personal preferences and style. According to the company, Harvey had only made half of the expected payments for these alterations before he allegedly refused to settle the remaining balance. The verbal agreement, as argued by Business Aircraft Leasing Inc., was that Harvey would lease the jet for $97,000 a month once these costly customizations were completed.
The lawsuit was filed against both Harvey personally and one of his many businesses, One World Aviation. Although the jet company eventually dropped its case against Harvey a year later, opting instead to make a business agreement with One World Aviation, the incident still cast a shadow on his financial dealings. Despite the legal resolution, Harvey has since shared numerous photos enjoying the comfort of his private jet, which has even served as a stylish backdrop for fashion-forward videos with his wife, Marjorie, underscoring the irony of the earlier dispute.
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4. **Allegations of Racist Rants Caught on Tape**One of the most damaging allegations to surface about Steve Harvey’s public image involved claims of a shocking racist rant caught on tape, a scandal that had the potential to utterly destroy his family-friendly persona. Radar Online reported on a two-month investigation that uncovered a former employee of Harvey’s, Joseph Cooper, who claimed to possess recordings of the “Family Feud” host spewing hateful words against white people during old comedy routines. Cooper went as far as to state that Harvey urged fans to “spit on white people” and “go assault old white women,” adding the incendiary line, “I don’t give a s**t about America!”
In response to these grave accusations, Steve Harvey allegedly filed a lawsuit against Cooper, accusing him of attempting to “extort” him for $5 million by threatening to release these sensitive recordings. Court papers obtained in the case revealed that Cooper was trying to sell these tapes, which contained material from comedy routines performed more than 20 years prior. Harvey’s legal team claimed that Cooper had a history of contacting television executives whenever Harvey was hired for a show, attempting to inform them about the “potentially embarrassing material and or tapes” and influence them to make Harvey pay for the recordings.
Joseph Cooper, who was hired by Harvey in March 1993 to videotape a comedy act at the Steve Harvey Comedy Club in Dallas, Texas, reportedly recorded over 120 hours of material. He remained insistent that the world needed to know about the “explosive audio tapes” and blasted Harvey as “the worst person that’s ever been on television.” Cooper’s actions, which included suing Harvey for $20 million in 2014, underscore the intensity of this long-standing dispute. Court documents from a deposition did reveal that Harvey admitted the tapes contained material that was “a lot edgier” than his current family-friendly jokes, acknowledging, “I didn’t have to concern myself with branding or imaging or anything. You could just say – I thought I was funnier.” The allegations also included Harvey reportedly complaining on tape about only having “30 minutes to tell how I hate whites!”
5. **The Infamous Miss Universe Mishap**In December 2015, Steve Harvey made an unforgettable on-air blunder that instantly became one of the most talked-about moments in live television history: he crowned the wrong Miss Universe. During the live broadcast of the pageant, Harvey mistakenly announced Miss Colombia, Ariadna Gutiérrez, as the winner, allowing her to bask in the glory and wear the crown for a full two minutes before realizing his error. The actual winner, Miss Philippines Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, stood on stage equally stunned as the crown was dramatically transferred.
The incident unfolded in front of a global audience, creating an incredibly awkward and embarrassing situation for all involved, particularly for Miss Colombia who had to relinquish her brief moment of victory. Harvey, visibly flustered, had to step back on stage to correct his monumental mistake. The confusion and the subsequent correction led to immediate widespread discussion across traditional and social media, with clips of the gaffe going viral and cementing it as a defining moment in his career.
It took the host a couple of weeks to issue a comprehensive apology for the gaffe, acknowledging the embarrassment he caused to both contestants and the pageant organization. This on-air slip-up, which showcased the high-pressure nature of live television, brought an unprecedented level of scrutiny to Harvey’s hosting abilities and his attention to detail. It was a moment that, while eventually smoothed over with apologies, lingered in the public consciousness as a stark example of a prominent entertainer’s very human—and very public—error.
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6. **Controversial Remarks on Atheists**Steve Harvey has also drawn criticism for his strong and divisive opinions on atheism, which he expressed during televised appearances. Several years ago, while on “The Tyra Banks Show,” he made a provocative statement advising women against dating men who do not believe in God, initially referring to such a man as an “idiot.” He later reiterated and expanded upon this sentiment during an appearance on “The Joy Behar Show,” solidifying his controversial stance and sparking a heated debate about his views on faith and morality.
On “The Joy Behar Show,” Harvey directly challenged the basis of morality for non-believers, stating, “What are you relying on, as an atheist, to judge your own virtue and morality?” He then unequivocally added, “Because if you do not believe in God, then you are an idiot in my book… I don’t like talking to those who don’t believe in God.” These comments were not merely an expression of personal belief but were perceived by many as a sweeping dismissal and condemnation of an entire group of people.
His remarks were met with significant backlash, as critics argued that such statements were intolerant and discriminatory, coming from a public figure who often preaches motivational and inclusive messages. The idea that one’s intelligence or moral compass is solely determined by their belief in God, as implied by Harvey, ignited discussions about religious tolerance and the role of faith in public discourse, positioning him firmly against those who hold secular views.
7. **Ex-Wife Mary Harvey’s Detailed and Explosive Accusations**Steve Harvey’s divorce from his second wife, Mary Harvey (formerly Mary Shackelford), was exceptionally contentious and became a highly public and controversial episode in his personal life. Following their split, Mary released a lengthy 25-minute YouTube video in which she made a series of explosive allegations against him, fundamentally challenging his public image. These accusations went far beyond typical divorce disputes, painting a picture of profound betrayal and legal wrongdoing.
Mary Harvey claimed that Steve Harvey cheated on her for a decade and that she was left with no money, asserting that their divorce had not been officially finalized in the manner promised. In her April statement, she declared, “Steve Harvey owes me $50 million and I want him imprisoned for violating my civil rights!” This dramatic call for his incarceration highlighted the depth of her anger and perceived injustice, bringing serious legal accusations into the public sphere.
Her allegations were extensive and specific, detailing a host of charges she wished to bring against him, including “The violation of A constitutional right, falsifying documents, perjury, contempt of court, embezzlement, extortion, and collusion.” These were not minor grievances but severe claims that, if proven, would have had catastrophic consequences for Harvey’s career and reputation. Mary further alleged that the equitable distribution of their shared assets, which was supposedly a condition of their divorce, never occurred as the judge had promised, directly implicating the legal process and the fairness of their settlement.
Adding another layer of complexity and perceived infidelity, Mary specifically stated, “His new wife, [Marjorie Elaine Harvey, whom he wed in 2007] is also his wife.” This accusation implied that Harvey’s relationship with Marjorie overlapped improperly with his marriage to Mary, reinforcing her claims of long-term infidelity and even bigamy. These highly public and detailed accusations from his ex-wife continue to be a significant, unaddressed “sketch” in Steve Harvey’s otherwise polished narrative.”
8. **Controversial Views on Male Infidelity**While Steve Harvey’s own marital history is definitely a hot topic, he’s also managed to stir the pot with his public statements on the very nature of male infidelity. During an interview with Joy Behar, he delved into the age-old question, “Why do guys cheat?” His take? It seemed to place a significant amount of responsibility, or at least a point of initiation, on women.
Harvey’s perspective on the matter suggested that men cheat because, simply put, “a large number of women are ready and willing to cheat on guys.” This framing of infidelity quickly sparked debate, as it appeared to shift the onus from the cheater to the readily available “other woman.” Such a view, especially from a public figure who often doles out relationship advice, raised eyebrows and led many to question the depth and fairness of his understanding of marital dynamics.
It’s one thing to acknowledge that temptation exists, but quite another to imply that men’s infidelity is primarily fueled by the sheer willingness of other women. Critics argued that this perspective minimizes personal accountability and ignores the complex reasons, both internal and external, that contribute to someone choosing to betray a partner. Coming from a man whose own past has been riddled with infidelity allegations, these comments added another layer of “hmm” to his public image.
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9. **Discriminatory “Colorblind” Jokes**Back in January 2017, Steve Harvey found himself in hot water yet again, this time for remarks that were widely perceived as discriminatory towards Asian men. The controversy stemmed from comments he made while discussing a hypothetical self-help book cover featuring an Asian man, playfully suggesting that such a book might be titled, “How to Date a White Woman: A Guide for Asian Men.”
The situation escalated when he doubled down, adding comments like, “Do you prefer the looks of Asian men? Chinese food isn’t anything I’m a fan of, to begin with.” He continued with, “In the blink of an eye, you’ll be over it. When it comes to food, I only consume what I can recognize.” These remarks, supposedly drawn from a 2002 book cover that appeared on “The Steve Harvey Show,” quickly circulated and drew significant backlash for their insensitive and stereotypical nature.
The jokes were seen by many as perpetuating harmful stereotypes and mocking Asian men, especially given his national platform. Harvey did issue a public apology later, acknowledging the offense caused. However, for a figure who preaches positivity and universal appeal, these “colorblind” jokes served as a stark reminder of moments when his humor has crossed the line from lighthearted to genuinely offensive, showing a lapse in judgment that many found hard to overlook.
10. **Outdated Dating Advice for Women**Steve Harvey, the relationship guru, has offered plenty of dating advice through his books and shows, but some of it has been nothing short of controversial. During an appearance on “Good Morning America,” he gave some truly head-scratching advice to a woman seeking guidance, essentially suggesting that men’s dating goals might, at times, be quite shallow.
His advice took a turn when he posited that if a man’s goals are “narrow,” he should only date “shallow, uneducated women.” He then elaborated, “A ‘very intelligent’ person should not be told that ‘Hey, I’d want to do something for you this evening.’ You want to find someone shallow, extremely simple, ignorant, that you can run this by, and they’ll sit there and go, ‘Wow, that sounds fantastic!’” This gem of wisdom quickly became a talking point, and not in a good way.
The implications of such advice are pretty clear: it suggests that intelligent women are a hindrance to a man’s “narrow” intentions, and that women should perhaps dumb themselves down or be less discerning to attract certain types of men. This reductive and frankly insulting take on relationships and women’s intelligence sparked outrage, painting Harvey’s “straight talk” as outdated and potentially damaging. It reinforced the notion that some of his widely disseminated advice might do more harm than good.
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11. **Meeting with Donald Trump and Subsequent Defense**In January 2017, Steve Harvey found himself entangled in political controversy when he met with then-President-elect Donald Trump. This meeting, coming at a time of significant political polarization, generated a public uproar and drew criticism from many, including fellow celebrities like Snoop Dogg and T.I.
The backlash stemmed from the perception that by meeting with Trump, Harvey was implicitly endorsing or legitimizing a figure many found deeply problematic. Rather than backing down, Harvey defended his decision on Twitter, stating, “This country has an office called ‘president,’ and you have to respect that position whether you like to or not.” He characterized his meeting as an attempt to facilitate positive change, particularly for urban communities, rather than a political endorsement.
He also used the opportunity to address the criticism from his peers, remarking, “Snoop Dogg is one of my favorite characters. Oh my gosh, we’ve always been so nice and cordial to one other. T.I. is not a concern for me. I adore the guy. I’m merely urging my boys to think before they act… If you have money, they know where to look for it.” While attempting to frame his actions as patriotic and practical, his defense didn’t entirely quell the criticism, leaving a “sketchy” mark on his public image as someone who perhaps wasn’t as aligned with popular sentiment as his entertainment persona often suggested.
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12. **Awkward Comments on Gay Men**Steve Harvey has a track record of making statements that sometimes land with a thud, and his comments on “The View” about gay men are a prime example. During a discussion, he stated, “One of you is essential to the existence of every man on the planet. There is no such thing as him. We can’t do without you,” seemingly referring to women in a heteronormative context.
The panel of hosts quickly interrupted him to clarify his position on gay men, correcting him to acknowledge that homosexual men are also “genuine men.” This exchange highlighted Harvey’s often-traditional and sometimes narrow views on gender and relationships, which can clash with more inclusive contemporary understandings. His initial statement, without immediate qualification, suggested a perspective that implicitly excluded or overlooked a significant portion of the male population.
This incident was a snapshot of how Harvey’s attempts at humor or observational statements sometimes reveal underlying biases that are out of step with a diverse audience. The need for hosts to correct him publicly underscored the problematic nature of his initial comment, serving as a reminder that even seasoned entertainers can misstep when discussing sensitive social issues, leading to moments of public awkwardness and scrutiny.
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13. **Troubling Statements Reinforcing Rape Culture**In another instance of highly questionable public commentary, Steve Harvey made a series of remarks on “Good Morning America’s” segment “Straight Talk With Steve Harvey” that many viewers interpreted as reinforcing rape culture. When a caller asked about the proper way to decline a man’s advances, Harvey’s response was, to put it mildly, deeply problematic.
His advice? “A guy is impossible to stop. Once a guy shows interest in you, we’re all in. Your actions are irrelevant to us.” This statement drew immediate and severe criticism for suggesting that women’s agency in sexual encounters is nonexistent and that men are simply uncontrollable once aroused. Such a perspective fundamentally undermines consent and places the burden of preventing unwanted advances solely on women, ignoring men’s responsibility to respect boundaries.
These remarks were not only seen as dismissive of women’s experiences but also as potentially dangerous, given his wide audience and influence. For a public figure to essentially say that a woman’s refusal or “actions are irrelevant” once a man is interested is a startling endorsement of toxic masculinity and a deeply concerning message to send, especially in an era where consent is paramount. It’s a “sketchy” moment that continues to be a point of contention when reviewing his public statements.
14. **Sexist Remarks on “Nagging Husbands”**Steve Harvey’s commentary on gender roles and relationships has often veered into traditional, and at times, overtly sexist territory. This was notably apparent during an episode of “The Joy Behar Show” when a lady spoke about her “nagging husband,” expecting perhaps a sympathetic ear or balanced advice. Instead, Harvey responded with a remark that quickly became controversial.
He jokingly, yet pointedly, stated, “Wow, her hubby nags! That’s brand-new information!” before following up with, “You might want to have a look at your husband’s man card. Is he not as rough and tumble as you expected he would be?” These comments were widely perceived as not just dismissive of the woman’s concerns but also as a perpetuation of harmful gender stereotypes.
The implication was clear: men who “nag” are somehow less masculine or have their “man card” revoked. This type of rhetoric reinforces rigid gender roles, suggesting that certain behaviors are inherently “unmanly” and that deviations from these stereotypes are worthy of public ridicule. It underscores a recurring theme in Harvey’s public statements where his attempts at humor or “straight talk” often come at the expense of promoting a more equitable and understanding view of relationships and gender.
15. **Recent Social Media Blunder and Employee Firing**Even in more recent times, Steve Harvey has faced a social media stumble that highlighted the challenges of managing a public persona. In August 2023, a controversial tweet was posted from his official Twitter account, asking followers to name “a comedian you don’t find funny at all.” The tweet quickly gained traction, garnering over a million views, but it also sparked immediate criticism for its negative and divisive nature.
Harvey, visibly “pissed off,” addressed the incident in a minute-long video, explaining that an employee working for him on his Twitter account was responsible. He expressed frustration, stating, “Why would I do something like that? That doesn’t even make no d**n sense. My whole brand is to be motivational.” He emphasized his commitment to positivity, particularly towards “up-and-coming comedians” who might be targeted by such a post.
The most striking part of his apology was the thinly veiled implication that the employee had been, or would be, fired. Harvey quipped, “Talking about, ‘I was trying to get some engagement.’ Okay… you trying to get some employment, too.” While some fans found humor in his raw reaction and relief that he wasn’t personally behind the tweet, others felt the employee’s dismissal might have been harsh. This incident served as a reminder of the constant need for vigilance in celebrity branding and how quickly a single “sketchy” social media post can become a public relations headache, even if it’s not directly from the celebrity themselves.
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From unwavering loyalties to controversial quips, and from personal relationship dramas to public gaffes, it’s clear that Steve Harvey’s journey through the entertainment landscape has been anything but a smooth ride. While his comedic timing and hosting charisma have undeniably cemented his status as a beloved icon, these “sketchy” moments offer a deeper, more nuanced look at the man behind the microphone. They serve as a powerful reminder that even the most successful and celebrated figures are complex individuals, prone to missteps and controversies that, for better or worse, become part of their enduring public narrative. It’s a lot to unpack, but hey, that’s showbiz!
