Globally recognized comedian, actor, producer and entrepreneur Kevin Hart has entered into a strategic partnership with Authentic Brands Group to co-own and manage the Kevin Hart brand.
Kevin Hart and Jamie Salter, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Authentic. – Authentic
As part of the transaction, Hart also becomes a shareholder in Authentic, whose portfolio includes more than 50 brands, and generates approximately $32 billion in annual systemwide retail sales worldwide. Hart joins a roster of high-profile partners across sports, culture and entertainment, including David Beckham and Shaquille O’Neal.
“This partnership is about acceleration, growth and diversification. I’ve spent years building businesses and creating opportunities, and joining Authentic gives me the platform and global infrastructure to take my brand to the next level,” Hart said.
“Becoming a shareholder allows me to co-own some of the most recognizable IP of all time while building my own brand legacy. I want the Hart name to live on for generations to come and be something that my grandkids and their grandkids will be able to be proud of.”
Hart brings to the partnership a multifaceted entertainment and business portfolio that spans film, television, global comedy tours, streaming platforms and consumer-facing ventures. With a global social media following of more than 292 million, his business interests include Hartbeat Productions, spirits brand Gran Coramino and fitness-focused collaborations such as Fabletics, among other categories.
Together, Authentic and Hart plan to expand the Kevin Hart brand through consumer products, digital platforms, collaborations and live experiences worldwide.
“Kevin is one of the most dynamic entertainers and entrepreneurs of our time,” said Jamie Salter, founder, chairman and CEO of Authentic. “His creative vision, business instincts and cultural impact are unmatched. Kevin sees what we see: the power of brand ownership and the opportunity to build a global, long-term business. His investment in Authentic also reflects our mutual confidence and shared vision for that growth.”
