The ego has landed: Steve Harvey mocked for email telling staff not to approach him

As TV host Steve Harvey makes the move to Los Angeles for his new syndicated talk show, simply titled Steve, a leaked email he reportedly sent to his staff has sent Twitter into meltdown.

In the email he explains the very strict rules for approaching him at work, issuing a stern warning to members of his team against coming into his dressing room. He says:

"Good morning, everyone. Welcome back.

"I'd like you all to review and adhere to the following notes and rules for Season 5 of my talk show. There will be no meetings in my dressing room. No stopping by or popping in. NO ONE," reads the email.

"Honestly, don't even try to come in. Don't even try. You will be removed. Don't play."

Harvey adds that anyone waiting in the corridor to 'ambush' him will also be removed by his security.

"My security team will stop everyone from standing at my door who have the intent to see or speak to me. I want all the ambushing to stop now. That includes TV staff. You must schedule an appointment."

Explaining the reason for his rather stern directive he adds: "Everyone, do not take offence to the new way of doing business. It is for the good of my personal life and enjoyment.

Thank you all, Steve Harvey"

The email has since gone viral on social media, with critics widely mocking the message, which was first reported by journalist Robert Feder, while some defended the TV star's need for 'personal time.'

"Referring to people walking into your dressing room as an 'ambush' is really something," said one person.

"I can't stand Steve Harvey, but everyone has a right to set boundaries. He probably had to be firm, people tend to ignore nice requests.," said one commentator.

And the winner is... oh

Its not the first time the TV host has found himself the focus of an embarrassing public gaffe. The 58-year-old comedian caused a sensation at the Miss Universe pageant on 20 December when he misread his cue card and announced Miss Colombia, Ariadna Gutierrez as the winner.

After Miss Columbia was crowned, Harvey apologised and explained that Miss Philippines, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, was the actual winner. Miss Columbia was forced to remove her crown in front of a global viewing audience.

Prior to the latest public backlash over his offending email, Harvey issued a statement in which he described his excitement at making the move to LA with his new show.

"As I embark on this new adventure, I'm excited to explore everything Los Angeles has to offer for this new show," he said. "'Steve' is going to be different than my current daytime show. The new location will allow me to welcome more celebrity guests and more importantly let me do what I enjoy doing best, being funny."

Starting 5 September, the new show will air at 2pm weekdays on NBC-owned WMAQ-Channel 5.