Photo Credit: Steve Harvey/Instagram
Steve Harvey’s been announced to be out as the host of the NBC child competition show Little Big Shots after 3 years of being the face of the program. This is interesting given that he’s one of the co-creators and producers. Melissa McCarthy has been chosen as the show’s new host. “Changes will be apparent,” an NBC executive said of the move and to give the show a “brand refresh.” That’s good for the show but harsh words to the person who created said brand.
“Melissa’s just an incredible performer and incredible comedian,” said Paul Telegdy, NBC’s co-chairman of entertainment. “She will bring a completely fresh perspective to it.” It’s also worth noting that McCarthy is about 15 years younger than Steve Harvey and she’s been turning heads in Hollywood since losing over 130 pounds which inevitably opens up the roles she’s available for as can be seen here. Harvey was said to be getting a hefty raise in the show’s 4th season contract which now won’t materialize. Whether that had anything to do with him no longer being the host, it isn’t clear.
This isn’t the first gig Harvey is losing as his daytime talk show was just canceled. After about a 7 year run and being rebooted once, the plug was pulled on the show after its new partners and producers IMG moved him to LA and wanted him to have a more celebrity focus. The format never really stuck and caused him to lose viewers. Unable to crack 2 million viewers in recent weeks. His time slot will be replaced by Kelly Clarkson. It’s said that IMG is discussing relationship and advice content in digital, cable and SVOD after his June finale.