NBCUniversal has confirmed with TVSpy that Steve Harvey is ending his Chicago based syndicated show and launching a new show that will be produced in Los Angeles.
Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports the move will mean a loss of about 100 jobs in the city. Harvey’s agent, Ari Emanuel, the brother of Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, was “instrumental” in making the new deal.
Feder quotes Broadcasting & Cable which reported last year Harvey was looking to move to LA to “attract more celebrities.”
The new show will launch next September and be produced by IMG and distributed by NBCUniversal.
“Steve Harvey has consistently been a top tier talker, ranking #4 behind Dr. Phil, Ellen and Live With Kelly,” reports Deadline. “During the most recent week reporting, it averaged 2.3 million viewers and a 1.7 in adults 18-49.”