Wanda Sykes and Deon Cole star alongside the famed actor/comedian in the series chronicling his childhood through the lens of humor and heart; the Hartbeat project streams this Spring.
The upcoming adult animated series Lil Kev, from Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat, is headed to BET+ this Spring.
“The story of Lil Kev is one we knew we wanted to develop from the moment it was pitched,” said Jason Harvey, EVP, Strategy and Operations at BET+. “Adding the dynamic cast to support that storytelling made the project the perfect fit for our subscribers because it allows us to better represent the multifaceted experiences across our diverse audience of comedy and animation enthusiasts.”
Set in 1993 North Philadelphia, the series follows 12-year-old Hart, whose wild imagination and unshakable optimism constantly collide with his neighborhood’s harsh realities. At the same time, his no-nonsense mother Nancy juggles night shifts as an E.R. nurse while waging a one-woman war to keep Kev on track. Through it all, Lil Kev navigates his rocky upbringing with humor, hustle, and heart, surrounded by the unforgettable characters who will propel him to comedy superstardom.
Wanda Sykes stars as Hart’s mother Nancy alongside Deon Cole, who stars as Uncle Richard Jr., Nancy’s hustling younger brother. Additional casting to be announced.
"I'm excited to deepen the partnership between Hartbeat and BET on a project so close to my heart," said Hart. "With comedy veterans Wanda and Deon alongside me, we're bringing Lil Kev to life—a hilarious celebration of stories inspired by my Philly roots, a place that will always be home to me.”
“Lil Kev marks an exciting milestone for BET+ as we continue to expand our content portfolio with bold, fresh, and culturally resonant storytelling,” said Scott Mills, President and CEO of BET Media Group. “Kevin Hart’s unique comedic voice has long been a favorite across our platforms, and we’re thrilled to bring his personal journey to life through this groundbreaking adult animated series. With an all-star cast and an authentic narrative rooted in Kevin’s real-life experiences, Lil Kev is sure to captivate audiences and further solidify BET+ as the home for Black storytelling in all its forms.”
Hart, Bryan Smiley, Jeff Clanagan, Mike Stein, and Candice Wilson Cherry executive produce for Hartbeat, with Tiffany Brown co-executive producing. Matthew Claybrooks and Michael Price serve as both EPs and showrunners. Alex Bulkley and Corey Campodonico will also executive produce for ShadowMachine. Jason Harvey and Rose Catherine Pinkney executive produce for BET+.
Source: BET+
Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L'Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.
