CHICAGO _ Steve Harvey was scheduled to end production of his Chicago-based talk show Thursday as word broke of a memo he reportedly sent to staff months ago outlining rules for interaction with him.
"Do not wait in any hallway to speak to me. I hate being ambushed. Please make an appointment. I promise you I will not entertain you in the hallway, and do not attempt to walk with me," were among the rules listed in the email Chicago media columnist Robert Feder posted Wednesday. "If you're reading this, yes, I mean you. Everyone, do not take offense to the new way of doing business. It is for the good of my personal life and enjoyment."
A representative for Endemol Shine North America, which produces "Steve Harvey," declined to comment about the email that quickly became fodder for comedians Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Harvey prepared to tape his final two episodes at the WMAQ-Ch. 5 studios, his show's home for nearly five years. One of these episodes is an hourlong tribute to Harvey's favorite "Ask Steve" segment, during which he fields questions from the audience. It's unclear when this episode will air. Episodes of Harvey's show sometimes air in a different order than they were taped.
The remaining "Steve Harvey" episodes are set to feature: singers Patti LaBelle and Kelly Rowland (who were both spotted in town last week); Bravo talk show host Andy Cohen; "Dance Moms" star Cheryl Burke (in town May 2) and "The Bachelorette" Season 10 winner Josh Murray, who was here in mid-April. Harvey's morning radio show colleagues are also expected to appear, among others.
"Vanderpump Rules" star Stassi Schroeder also will likely be one of the final guests. She posted on social media Wednesday from the "Steve Harvey" green room.
Harvey said he plans to welcome more celebrity guests when his new Los Angeles-based show "Steve" premieres Sept. 5.
