STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

Kevin Hart's 'Lil Kev' to Premiere as BET+'s First Original Animated Series in Spring 2025

Inspired by Hart’s childhood in North Philadelphia, the adult animated comedy features Wanda Sykes and Deon Cole in a heartfelt and hilarious exploration of resilience, family, and imagination.

BET+ and Hartbeat, the global entertainment company founded by Kevin Hart, have announced their first-ever original adult animated series, Lil Kev. Created by Hart himself, the highly anticipated half-hour series is set to debut in Spring 2025.

Inspired by Hart’s childhood experiences and comedic sensibilities, Lil Kev takes a satirical and unfiltered approach to real-life challenges. The series reflects Hart's signature no-holds-barred humor and promises a mix of sharp wit and heartfelt storytelling.

The series is set in 1993 North Philadelphia and follows 12-year-old Kevin Hart, whose vivid imagination and boundless optimism clash hilariously with the gritty realities of his neighborhood.

Wanda Sykes stars as Kevin’s tough, God-fearing mother, Nancy, who juggles night shifts as an ER nurse while keeping Kevin on a straight path. Deon Cole joins the cast as Uncle Richard Jr., Nancy’s fitness-obsessed, hustling younger brother who recently returned from prison. Additional casting will be revealed in the coming months.

Nancy’s challenges include managing Kevin’s mischievous older brother Robert, dealing with her ex-husband Henry’s chaotic attempts to reconcile, and contending with Richard Jr.’s questionable advice. Despite these hurdles, Kevin’s journey is infused with humor, resilience, and heart as he navigates his path toward comedic greatness.

"I'm excited to deepen the partnership between Hartbeat and BET on a project so close to my heart," said Kevin 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.”

Jason Harvey, EVP of Strategy and Operations at BET+, added, “The story of Lil Kev is one we knew we wanted to develop from the moment it was pitched. With its dynamic cast and authentic narrative, the series perfectly represents the multifaceted experiences of our diverse audience.”

Lil Kev premieres in the spring of 2025.

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