Updated: February 12, 2025
The once up-and-coming comedian from Philadelphia, who, with patience and persistence turned himself into the mogul we know as Kevin Hart, has partnered with BET+ to create an animated series reflecting his adolescence titled Lil Kev.
Hart has never shied away from sharing his story. In comedy specials like Laugh At My Pain, Grown Little Man, and What Now?, he has made it a priority to be honest about the environment he was raised in. Time and time again, he has opened the door for people to reflect on their own experiences and try to create their own sense of therapy.
The logline reads:
“Set in 1993 North Philadelphia, the adult animated series “Lil Kev” follows 12-year-old Kevin 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 – no easy feat with his mischievous older brother Robert blazing all the wrong trails, his trainwreck father Henry’s outrageous attempts to win Nancy back, and his ex-con uncle Richard Jr.’s questionable life advice. 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.”
Hart, portraying himself at 12 years old, will be working alongside comedy legend, Wanda Sykes, who plays his God-fearing mother, Nina. Representing the lengths every mother is willing to go to for their child, Nina does everything she can to ensure Lil Kev makes something of himself.
Deon Cole will portray Kev’s uncle, Richard Jr., who has just returned home from prison and developed a noticeable interest in fitness.
“I’m excited to deepen the partnership between Hartbeat and BET on a project so close to my heart,” Hart said in a statement. “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.”
The new series adds Gerald “Slink” Johnson as a series regular with guest stars for the series including Jamar Neighbors, Cree Summer, Anjelah Johnson-Reyes, Patricia “Ms. Pat” Williams, Wé Ani, Affion Crockett, Jess Hilarious and more.
Even though this is Hart’s first animated series as an executive producer, it’s far from his first time being in the executive chair. Having produced shows like Olympic Highlights and Die Hart, it’s clear that he refuses to be pigeonholed.
In addition to kayaking and round-housing stuntmen, he’s also coming off the success of Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, starring heavy hitters such as Samuel L. Jackson, Terrance J. Howard, and Taraji P. Henson.
Hart is redefining the way we experience entertainment. This partnership with BET+ is only another gateway to creating shows that not only entertain us but show us what is possible for the next generation of creatives.
Lil Kev is set to premiere on March 6.
Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com
