Steve Wilkos is the host of “The Steve Wilkos Show,” a nationally syndicated series produced by NBC Universal Domestic Television Distribution. The show is now in its fifteenth season. Since its debut Wilkos’ popularity has skyrocketed—the show has grown 59% in households over its premiere season and averaged a strong 1.5 million daily viewers for the 2019-20 season. His straightforward approach combined with his sincerity and humor has earned viewers’ trust and respect.

Before beginning a career in entertainment, Wilkos served in the U.S. Marine Corps for seven years. When he returned from service, he went back to his hometown of Chicago and joined the Chicago Police Department, following in his father’s footsteps. During that time, he took great pride in keeping the streets of the notoriously volatile Shakespeare District safe for almost 12 years. Wilkos retired from the police force in 2001.

Late in his law enforcement career, the 6’3” Wilkos began moonlighting, as a security guard on “The Jerry Springer Show.” By the time he started hosting his own show, Wilkos had guest-hosted more than 50 episodes of “The Jerry Springer Show.”

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices