NEW YORK — Steve Harvey played hard-to-get before deciding to become a daytime television talk-show host.

The veteran comic, whose new show gets a jump on the fall season, was first approached about a show three years ago when his first book, “Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man,” was on the best-seller lists.

The television production company Endemol thought the idea of Harvey giving women advice from a man’s point of view made a perfect theme. Harvey said no, thanks.

One of the original “Kings of Comedy” thought late-night was a better place for him on TV. Daytime is more sedate. He had a thriving stand-up career he wasn’t ready to give up and a popular morning radio show broadcast across the country. Harvey also thought his suitors were trying to limit him.

Harvey instead signed on as host of the game show “Family Feud.” His success there made producers want him more, said David Goldberg, chairman and CEO of Endemol North America.
Goldberg tried again, and this time sealed the deal.