Kevin Hart Expands Empire with Major Deal to Co-Own Authentic Brands Group

Globally renowned comedian, actor, producer, and entrepreneur Kevin Hart has forged a significant strategic partnership with Authentic Brands Group (ABG), resulting in a co-ownership and management arrangement for the Kevin Hart brand. This collaboration marks a major step in expanding Hart’s already vast empire and solidifying his legacy within the entertainment and business worlds.

A key component of this deal is Hart’s acquisition of a shareholder stake in Authentic Brands Group itself. ABG boasts a portfolio of over 50 brands and generates approximately $32 billion in annual systemwide retail sales globally. This places Hart alongside other prominent partners within ABG’s network, including sports and entertainment icons David Beckham and Shaquille O’Neal, demonstrating the high regard for his brand and business acumen.

Hart expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating it’s centered around “acceleration, growth and diversification.” He emphasized that joining Authentic provides the necessary platform and global infrastructure to elevate his brand to unprecedented heights, building upon years of independent business development and opportunity creation. He views this as a catalyst for taking his entrepreneurial ventures to the next level.

Beyond immediate growth, Hart highlighted the long-term vision behind the deal. Becoming a shareholder allows him to co-own iconic intellectual property while simultaneously building a lasting brand legacy. His ultimate goal is to establish the “Hart name” as something enduring, a source of pride for future generations – his grandchildren and theirs.

Hart brings a diverse and robust portfolio to the partnership, encompassing film, television, worldwide comedy tours, streaming platforms, and direct-to-consumer ventures. He commands a massive global social media presence, exceeding 292 million followers, and his business interests include Hartbeat Productions, the tequila brand Gran Coramino, and fitness collaborations with brands like Fabletics, showcasing his reach across multiple consumer categories.

Looking ahead, Authentic and Hart intend to strategically expand the Kevin Hart brand through a variety of avenues, including consumer products, innovative digital platforms, exciting collaborations, and immersive live experiences on a global scale. This collaborative effort aims to capitalize on Hart’s widespread appeal and ABG’s established infrastructure.

Jamie Salter, founder, chairman, and CEO of Authentic Brands Group, lauded Hart as “one of the most dynamic entertainers and entrepreneurs of our time.” He praised Hart’s creative vision, business instincts, and significant cultural impact, emphasizing their shared belief in the power of brand ownership and the potential for building a substantial, long-term global business. Hart’s investment in Authentic further underscores this mutual confidence and aligned vision for future growth.