Real Husbands of Hollywood | LOL! Network

Cold As Balls Season 12 Presented by Old Spice

Kevin Darnell Hart (born July 6, 1979) is an American comedian, actor, and producer who has built a multi-faceted career from a stand-up comedy star to a major Hollywood film actor and a powerful media mogul. Known for his high energy, relatable humor, and prolific work ethic, he has become one of the most bankable entertainers in the world.

Born and raised in North Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Kevin Hart's childhood was marked by challenges that would later become a rich source of his comedic material. He was raised by his single mother, Nancy Hart, as his father, Henry Witherspoon, battled with drug addiction and spent time in and out of prison. Hart often used humor as a coping mechanism to navigate his family life, realizing early on the power of laughter to diffuse tension and bring joy.

After graduating from high school, he briefly attended the Community College of Philadelphia before pursuing his passion for comedy full-time. His early years on the stand-up circuit were difficult, with performances at small venues like bowling alleys and strip clubs under the stage name "Lil' Kev the Bastard." He struggled to find his voice, often imitating other famous comedians. It was the guidance of veteran comedian Keith Robinson that pushed him to be more personal and authentic. This pivot proved to be a turning point, as he began to draw from his real-life experiences, including his father's struggles, his own shortcomings, and the challenges of being a "grown little man."

His rise in the stand-up world was marked by several highly successful comedy tours and specials that sold out arenas worldwide:

• I'm a Grown Little Man (2009)
• Seriously Funny (2010)
• Laugh at My Pain (2011), which was a monumental success, grossing over $15 million and becoming one of the best-selling comedy tours of all time.
• Let Me Explain (2013), a concert film that grossed over $32 million globally.
• What Now? (2016), another blockbuster concert film.
• Irresponsible (2019) and Zero F**ks Given (2020), which earned him a Grammy nomination.
• Reality Check (2023), which won a People's Choice Award for Comedy Act of 2022.

Hart's on-screen career began with a recurring role in the TV series Undeclared (2001). He quickly moved into film with supporting roles in movies like Paper Soldiers (2002) and Scary Movie 3 (2003).

He became a certified box-office star with a series of hit buddy comedies and ensemble films. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to command a global audience, with his films collectively grossing over $4 billion worldwide. His most notable film roles include:

• Jumanji Franchise: He starred as Franklin "Mouse" Finbar in Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) and its sequel, Jumanji: The Next Level (2019), both of which were massive commercial hits alongside co-star Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.
• Ride Along Franchise: His role as Ben Barber opposite Ice Cube in the Ride Along films (2014, 2016) solidified his status as a comedic leading man.
• The Secret Life of Pets Franchise: He voiced the popular character Snowball in the animated films.
• Dramatic Roles: Hart has also taken on more serious roles, notably in the critically acclaimed film The Upside (2017) and the Netflix limited series True Story (2021).

In addition to his film work, Hart has created and starred in his own television projects, such as the semi-scripted comedy series Real Husbands of Hollywood and the celebrity interview show Hart to Heart. He has also hosted major televised events, including the MTV Video Music Awards and the BET Awards.

Beyond entertainment, Hart has a reputation as a shrewd and innovative businessman. He founded Hartbeat, a global multi-platform entertainment company that produces films, television shows, and digital content. In 2022, Hartbeat received a $100 million investment, valuing the company at over $650 million. The company's portfolio includes his own projects as well as content for major partners like Netflix, Peacock, and SiriusXM.

He is also the co-founder and general partner of Hartbeat Ventures, a venture capital firm that invests in consumer and media technology, with a focus on supporting minority-owned businesses and diverse founders.

His other business ventures include:

• Gran Coramino: He co-founded this premium tequila brand in 2022.
• Hart House: A plant-based fast-food restaurant chain.
• VitaHustle: A nutritional wellness brand.
• Endorsements: He has secured high-profile endorsement deals with brands such as Fabletics Men, Nike, Chase, and Audemars Piguet.

Kevin Hart has been open about his personal life, including his marriage to Torrei Hart from 2003 to 2011, with whom he has two children: daughter Heaven Leigh and son Hendrix. He married model Eniko Parrish in 2016, and they have two children together: son Kenzo Kash and daughter Kaori Mai.

Despite a highly publicized car accident in 2019 that left him with a severe back injury, Hart made a full recovery, which he has stated gave him a new perspective on life and a greater appreciation for his family.

Hart is also a dedicated philanthropist. Through his "Help From The Hart" foundation, he has supported various causes, including scholarships for students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). He has also worked with organizations like the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and has contributed to disaster relief efforts.