DALLAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Merit Street Media is excited to announce a strategic partnership with the award-winning multimedia personality, Steve Harvey, for its television network. The comprehensive agreement encompasses production, talent development, and on-air services for the multi-hyphenate entertainer, who is also now an equity partner in Merit Street. The two most recognizable and respected TV talents, Dr. Phil McGraw and Harvey, are joining forces in one of the largest startup networks in modern history.
With Merit Street, Harvey will Co-Executive Produce a docu-style special, slated to air this fall, about his Steve Harvey Mentoring Program where young men attend a week-long camp in Georgia. The special, which will feature both Harvey and McGraw, will focus on giving youth the tools and inspiration they need to flourish into positive leaders in their community and for their families. Additionally, Merit Street acquired over 300 episodes of Harvey’s syndicated daytime talker, “Steve,” which ran 2017-2019.
“Partnering with my good friend on such an innovative network allows me to continue my mission of empowering and inspiring individuals through entertainment. The docu-style special highlighting the impactful work of the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation is particularly close to my heart. I believe in the power of mentorship to transform lives and look forward to sharing this journey with viewers. The positive impact we can create together will be unlike anything seen before,” said Steve Harvey.
“Steve and I have been personal friends for over a decade, and it’s always the best experience when we work together,” said McGraw. “It’s easy to say that he’s the funniest human I’ve ever met,” he continued. “But his kindness and his passion to help others are really unmatched.”
McGraw concluded the original production of his “Dr. Phil” daytime program earlier this year, and Merit Street, anchored by “Dr. Phil Primetime,” is set to debut April 2, 2024. Seven-time Emmy winner Harvey has enjoyed a four-decade career as one of the most sought-after entertainers globally, spanning radio, TV, and the stage.
About Merit Street Media™
Merit Street Media™ is a premier multi-platform destination media brand spearheaded by Dr. Phil McGraw, the esteemed best-selling author and award-winning television host.
Launching April 2, 2024, Merit Street will create and distribute compelling content across diverse platforms, reaching audiences nationwide. The backbone of Merit Street’s media presence is its television network, established in partnership with Trinity Broadcasting Network. This fully distributed, cable, satellite, and free over-the-air broadcast media brand extends its initial reach to over 65 million television homes.
The network boasts a rich tapestry of original and acquired programming, anchored by the highly anticipated nightly talk show, “Dr. Phil Primetime.” Situated in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, the expansive Merit Street studios spans 5 acres and serves as the dynamic hub for the brand. Here, multiple hours of daily live news broadcasts will unfold, embodying Merit Street Media’s commitment to delivering engaging and informative content. Visit www.meritstreetmedia.com
About Steve Harvey Global
Steve Harvey is an award-winning entertainer, radio personality, motivational speaker, New York Times best-selling author, businessman, and philanthropist. For over almost three decades, Harvey has hosted and acted in numerous television series across multiple networks, including the latest, Judge Steve Harvey, which he created and produced under his production company, East 112.
Harvey has received 7 Daytime Emmys and 12 NAACP Image Awards. He is the longest running host of America’s favorite game show, “Family Feud.” Harvey has served since 2000 as the host of the nationally syndicated radio show, “The Steve Harvey Morning Show,” which has consistently ranked as the most listened-to morning show in America.
As an innovative business leader, Harvey established Steve Harvey Global (SHG), to unite his various businesses under one roof and one vision. Reflective of his personal brand, SHG creates and delivers entertaining, motivational content, products, and experiences to audiences everywhere. SHG also invests in global ventures focused on technology, education, and entertainment. As a values-based investor, SHG strives to enhance communities and individual lives through its investments and partnerships rooted in a disciplined approach focused on generating superior results. Christel Sicé managed the Merit Street Media partnership and Brandon Williams served as legal counsel on behalf of Steve Harvey Global.
Active humanitarians and philanthropists, Harvey and his wife, Marjorie, founded The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation in 2010, which helps under-resourced communities receive the tools for success. The Foundation reaches over 1,000 youth and families annually through programming and outreach services. For more about Harvey, visit www.steveharvey.com.
