Melissa McCarthy Replaces Steve Harvey As Host For NBC’s “Little Big Shots” Days After His Talk Show Is Canceled

Just days after news surfaced of the cancellation of Steve Harvey’s namesake talk show, which will reportedly be replaced by Kelly Clarkson’s namesake show in the fall, NBC has announced that the King of Comedy has also been replaced on the network’s kid talent show, “Little Big Shots.” 

According to PEOPLE, news of Harvey’s replacement came after Harvey’s daytime talk show, “Steve,” was canceled after seven years. It also came amid tensions between NBCUniversal and Endeavor’s IMG Original Content over ownership stake in the show, which ultimately soiled the working relationship between Harvey and NBC, as he revealed during an interview in January. 

“I’m an honorable guy, and I’m just an old school guy, and I just thought that you’re supposed to talk to people and go, “Look, you’ve been good business for us. This is what we’re thinking of doing. Are you okay with that?’ No, you don’t just put something in the paper and say, ‘I’m gonna make this move right here’ because it’s crazy.” 

Now, as a result, Harvey’s producers are looking to shop around the namesake talk show, in an attempt to get it picked up by another network. In the meantime, his hosting gig on “Little Big Shots” has been replaced by comedian Melissa McCarthy after three seasons on the show. 

“Melissa’s just an incredible performer and incredible comedian,” NBC’s co-chairman of entertainment said in a statement, adding that McCarthy “will bring a completely fresh perspective to it.” 

Although the network has yet to announce a premiere date for this show, it is expected to begin after football season. As for Harvey’s remaining television presence, sources say he will continue to host ABC’s Family Feud.