On August 6, 2024, during an airing of “Celebrity Family Feud,” host Steve Harvey left the audience both amused and bewildered when he admitted his unfamiliarity with actor Tom Holland.
The amusing incident unfolded when Clay Aiken, a contestant and former “American Idol” participant, was prompted to identify a famous individual named Tom, with whom a girl might wish to attend prom. Aiken’s confident response, “Tom Holland,” was met with a perplexed inquiry from Harvey: “Who’s Tom Holland?“
The audience erupted in laughter as Aiken explained to Harvey that Tom Holland is known for portraying Spider-Man in various Marvel films. Aiken humorously emphasized that his 15-year-old son, Parker, suggested the actor’s name, emphasizing the popularity of superhero films among younger generations.
Holland’s portrayal of Spider-Man in successful films such as “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” “Spider-Man: Far From Home,” and “Spider-Man: No Way Home” has made him a well-known figure in Hollywood. Beyond his role as Spider-Man, Holland has also appeared in the “Avengers” series and is in a relationship with fellow actress Zendaya. However, Harvey’s reaction indicated that the 67-year-old host might not be fully up-to-date with popular culture.
The event quickly gained traction online, with fans expressing their astonishment on platforms like TikTok and other social media. One user questioned, “How does Steve not know who Tom Holland is?” while another noted, “I’m 53 and immediately knew it was Tom Holland. How does Steve not know him?”
This is not the first time Harvey has found himself in a surprising situation on the show. In another popular moment, a contestant named Ava answered a question about the TV host women fantasize about with “Steve Harvey.” The host, taken aback, inquired about her age. Upon learning she was 24, Harvey jokingly reacted with a dismayed, “Oh God, no!” to the amusement of the audience.
Despite these unexpected moments, Harvey’s humor and occasional lack of pop culture knowledge continue to endear him to the audience. While his unawareness of Tom Holland may have surprised some, such moments contribute to the entertainment value of the show and keep viewers engaged.