Kevin Hart is poised to make an enormous, Adam Sandler-type deal with Netflix, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter.
The deal calls for Hart to star and produce four features for the streamer and then enter into a first-look deal via his production banner, HartBeat Productions. The comedian previously had a first-look deal with Universal, for whom it made the comedy Night School, and a deal with Nickelodeon.
Hart is currently shooting action comedy Man From Toronto and is due to begin shooting True Story, a dramatic limited series with Wesley Snipes for Netflix right after. The latter is not part of the deal. Also on the docket is Borderlands, a feature for Lionsgate.
“Partnering with Netflix is an amazing opportunity for HartBeat and myself,” said Hart in a statement. “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.”
Said Netflix’s head of film, Scott Stuber: “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.”
In November, the streamer launched Hart’s No F**s Given special. Sandler’s relationship with Netflix has proved profitable for both parties. Since signing in 2014, Sandler has made six films for the streamer.
The deal comes as competition among streamers heats up and each seeks distinctive programing to break through the clutter.
