President Obama, Steve Harvey Surprise White House Tourists

A White House tour group received an early Holiday surprise when they opened a door to find President Obama and Steve Harvey awaiting them.

Following a sit-down interview that will air Friday on "Steve Harvey," the president and the television host decided to surprise people taking Holiday tours of the White House and, as Obama put it,  "spread some Christmas cheer."

One wide-eyed boy was rendered almost speechless when Obama told him they shared something in common. “You got ears just like me,’’ the president said while shaking the hand of a boy named Jordan. “They give you some special power.”

Obama offered salutations to more stunned guests as Harvey found himself in a position he is not usually accustomed to: being the second most recognized person in the room.

“I’ve never been ignored this many times ever,’’ Harvey said as he stood to Obama’s right as tourists streamed past, the majority only having eyes for the president. "This is so cool."

“They just can’t see you behind the decorations,’’ Obama said with a smile.

In a gracious move to include the comedian, Obama asked one young girl, "You know Steve Harvey?" She responded with a quizzical look.

“I’m Cedric the Entertainer,’’ Harvey joked to another guest. “Thank you for coming.”

Immediately following the interview Harvey spoke with NBC Washington about his sit-down with Obama and told News4's Pat Lawson Muse that he quizzed Obama on "family, fatherhood and his plans for the holidays."

Harvey said he wanted to stay away from politics and concentrate more on personal subjects, such as what gifts Obama plans to give this holiday season, family life in the White House, and how he feels about his daughters dating.

"He has developed some theories about dating," Harvey teased. "I was pretty proud of my president on that one."

"Steve Harvey" airs Monday through Friday. Harvey's interview with President Obama is scheduled to air Friday Dec. 20, 2013. Check local guides for listings.

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