Entertainer Steve Harvey has taken an equity stake in Dr. Phil McGraw’s forthcoming television network, Merit Street Media.
As part of the deal between Harvey and Phil, the new television network will offer re-runs of “Harvey,” the NBC-produced daytime talk show that aired in syndication from 2017 to 2019.
Harvey will also serve as the executive producer of a documentary series focused on his Steve Harvey Mentoring Program, which will air on Merit Street Media shortly after it launches.
“Partnering with my good friend on such an innovative network allows me to continue my mission of empowering and inspiring individuals through entertainment,” Harvey said in a statement. “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.”
“Steve and I have been personal friends for over a decade, and it’s always the best experience when we work together,” McGraw said in a statement. “It’s easy to say that he’s the funniest human I’ve ever met, but his kindness and his passion to help others are really unmatched.”
Not included in the deal are some of Harvey’s other projects, including the syndicated game show “Family Feud,” which Harvey has hosted since 2010, as well as his “Judge Steve” courtroom-style arbitration show that airs on ABC.
Harvey adds to a growing roster of top talent making their way to Merit Street Media. McGraw has also inked deals with “The Bachelor” host Chris Harrison and former CNN Headline News host Nancy Grace for programs on the network.
Merit Street Media is expected to be distributed on cable, satellite and streaming systems across the country. Trinity Broadcasting has also signed on to distribute programs from Merit Street Media, which will occupy TBN on some cable and satellite platforms, along with a handful of licensed broadcast stations in key parts of the country.
Merit Street Media is expected to debut on April 2. It was originally scheduled to launch in February.
