Before ‘American Idol’ was considered the ‘juggernaut’ of singing competitions, its “granddaddy” – ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ – was the stage virtual unknowns took to if and when they wanted to be superstars. Helping build the careers of music icons James Brown, Stevie Wonder, and Michael Jackson to Lauryn Hill, Destiny’s Child, and more, the Apollo stage is etched in history for its contributions to R&B, rap, and music overall.
Airing as a television show from 1987 to 2008 (featuring music, comedy, dance, poetry, etc.), ‘Apollo’ welcomed comedian/actor/radio and television host Steve Harvey as its host from 1993-2000. Now, some 16 years later, Harvey and the series are set to be reunited thanks to FOX:
“Fox is reviving the long-running “Showtime at the Apollo” as a pair of specials with Steve Harvey set to host.
A two-hour version of the classic talent showcase from New York’s Apollo Theater will be broadcast on Fox Monday, Dec. 5 at 8 p.m. A one-hour special will follow in early 2017. The specials will feature elements of the Apollo’s weekly Amateur Night competition…
Jim Roush and Chris Wagner will executive producer for the Roush-Wagner Company. Reginald Hudlin will serves as executive producer and showrunner. Don Weiner will direct the December special and serve as an executive-producer. Jonelle Procope will executive produce for the Apollo Theater. Michael Antinoro will executive produce for IMG.”