Steve Harvey, one of the most recognizable names in comedy and television, has inspired millions with his story of resilience and faith. But before the fame, fortune, and success, Harvey hit rock bottom, living out of his car with just $35 to his name. It was during this time, when he was ready to give up, that Harvey says God spoke to him, encouraging him to keep going.
Harvey, who is now the host of Family Feud and has enjoyed a successful career as a comedian, talk show host, and best-selling author, often shares his journey from homelessness to Hollywood success as a testament to God’s faithfulness. In various interviews and public speaking engagements, Harvey has opened up about the darkest period of his life, when he was struggling to break into comedy and had no place to call home.
In the late 1980s, after a series of failed jobs and a broken marriage, Harvey found himself living in his car for three years. He would shower at gas stations or hotel restrooms and survive off of very little money while driving around the country looking for stand-up gigs. Despite his dire circumstances, Harvey continued to pursue his dream of becoming a comedian, booking small shows at comedy clubs whenever he could.
One day, Harvey reached a breaking point. Discouraged, exhausted, and nearly out of money, he contemplated giving up on his dreams altogether. “I had just $35 in my pocket,” Harvey recalls. “I was at the end of my rope and didn’t know how much longer I could go on.”
It was in that moment, Harvey says, that God intervened. “I was in my car, and I started praying. I was ready to quit,” Harvey shared. But as he prayed, Harvey says he felt God speak to him, telling him to keep going. “God told me, ‘If you keep doing what I created you to do, I’m going to take you places you’ve never been.’”
Harvey took that message to heart, and soon after, his career began to turn around. He received a phone call offering him a chance to perform at the Apollo Theater in New York City, a gig that would change his life. His performance at the Apollo was a success, and from there, opportunities began to flood in. Harvey continued to work hard, and over time, he established himself as a major force in the entertainment industry.
Today, Harvey’s story serves as a powerful reminder that faith can carry us through the darkest times. He often credits his belief in God as the reason he was able to endure such hardship and eventually find success. “There’s no way I’d be where I am today without God,” Harvey says. “I was down to nothing, but God’s word kept me going.”
Since those difficult years, Harvey has gone on to host multiple television shows, including Family Feud, The Steve Harvey Show, and Little Big Shots. He has also become a motivational speaker, using his platform to inspire others to pursue their dreams and trust in God’s plan for their lives.
Despite his success, Harvey has never forgotten where he came from. He often shares his story of struggle and perseverance to encourage others who may be facing their own challenges. “I want people to know that no matter how low you get, God always has a plan,” Harvey says. “He can turn your worst situation into your greatest victory.”
Harvey’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and persistence. He has gone from living in his car to building an empire in entertainment, all while keeping his faith at the center of his life. Today, he uses his platform not only to entertain but also to spread a message of hope and inspiration.
As Harvey continues his successful career, he remains grounded in his faith, attributing all his accomplishments to God’s guidance. “God’s been good to me,” Harvey says. “I know that everything I have is because of Him, and I’ll never forget that.”
Steve Harvey’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone facing adversity. His journey from rock bottom to the heights of success proves that with faith and determination, no obstacle is too great.
Terry Littlepage 
Kevin Parker 
Mandy Matthews