Comedian, host, and media mogul Steve Harvey revealed he stepped away from doing stand-up comedy between 2012 and 2015. He says his decision was driven by more than just the rigors of touring it was a reaction to shifting cultural norms.
On a recent episode of The Pivot Podcast, Harvey explained that he had built up a massive performance schedule, but realized continuing would mean sacrificing his family life. “If I tour on the weekends, I wouldn’t even have a family,” he said.
He also cited “cancel culture” as part of what made stand-up increasingly difficult. Harvey said he saw changes coming in what jokes were considered acceptable, and decided to exit while he could still control his legacy.
After his final show in Las Vegas in August 2012 aired live from the MGM Grand on pay-per-view Harvey channeled his energies into TV and radio. He’s since become a mainstay hosting Family Feud, Community Family Feud, The Steve Harvey Morning Show, and has even hosted Miss Universe (2015-2019).
