It's become quite clear that Netflix is eager to get into the Kevin Hart business after inking an exclusive, long term deal with the star and his HartBeat Productions banner. According to Deadline, the pact will have Hart starring in at least four films that he will also produce, with a First-look film production deal also a part of the mix. The newly-revealed union is already being likened to the long-standing deal that Netflix has with Adam Sandler, who for years has given the streamer some of its most popular film content to date.
“Partnering with Netflix is an amazing opportunity for HartBeat and myself,” Hart said. “I am excited to act in and produce cutting edge films with Netflix. I am extremely grateful to Ted Sarandos and Scott Stuber, we share the same creative vision and always put the audience first. This business is about growth and my HartBeat team continues to exceed my expectations with their ability to develop stories and relationships. Our goal is to make the HartBeat name synonymous with first-class entertainment and narratives.”
Netflix Film head Scott Stuber also shared his thoughts about the platform's lucrative union with Hart and his production studio: “Netflix has enjoyed a long relationship with Kevin and we’ve been lucky enough to partner with him many times. He’s a hands-on producer and it’s been great to watch him build an incredible company with HartBeat. There are very few artists who can attract audiences of all ages and succeed in making comedies, dramas, and family films. We’re excited to partner with Kevin, and his great team at HartBeat, to entertain our audience for years to come.”
Lastly, HartBeat president Bryan Smiley added his comments about the exciting, new pact: “I am beyond thrilled about this exciting new chapter in our company’s history. Kevin and I are committed to making ‘best in class” films with our new partners at Netflix. This groundbreaking deal guarantees HartBeat productions will be viewed by millions of people globally, for many years to come”
Hart is currently attached to star and executive produce the Netflix scripted limited series True Story, which centers on his character Kid and Kid’s older brother Carlton, played by Wesley Snipes. A tour stop in Kid’s hometown of Philadelphia becomes a matter of life and death for one of the world’s most famous comedians when the consequences of a lost evening with his wayward older brother threatens to destroy everything he’s built.
Let it be known that even a pandemic can't keep someone like Kevin Hart from making deals and pursuing his dream to become one of the biggest movie stars on the planet. Here's hoping that his material for the streamer is of a higher caliber than some of Sandler's more cringe-worthy Netflix features, yeah?
