Kevin Hart has a “responsibility” to the next wave of actors and actresses. This sentiment comes from an entertainer who has built a career spanning over two decades in the entertainment industry.
“I am very aware that I am getting older and turning into a vet in our business,” the 45-year-old star – who turned his focus to acting after making his name as a stand-up comedian – is “very aware” that he has a responsibility to up-and-coming movie stars. Hart’s career trajectory has seen him evolve from comedy clubs to becoming one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars.
Speaking to ‘Extra’, Kevin explained: “We do have a responsibility, and that responsibility is to try to position those that are next in the best way to exceed what we’ve done and go above and beyond … If it was set up for us to kind of just step and repeat and have the same layer of a success as the ones before us, then the business would pretty much have already peaked. The entertainment industry continues to grow at an unprecedented rate, with new opportunities emerging for talented individuals worldwide.
“The business only continues to grow and succeed and reach new levels because of what people are doing and creating underneath. So, I can only hope that this generation of amazing talent and actors, actresses, entrepreneurs, influencers, you know, the next wave of funny and the next wave of drama, like, they’re real. The next wave of directors and producers are real.” The digital age has transformed how talent emerges, with new platforms providing unprecedented opportunities for discovery.
Kevin sees it as his responsibility to help to “open as many doors” as possible for the next generation of movie stars. Throughout his career, Hart has launched several initiatives aimed at supporting emerging talent, including his comedy platform Laugh Out Loud Network.
“All we can try to do is kick open as many doors for them to discover new locks to the doors behind,” the ‘Ride Along’ actor – who has worked with the likes of Ice Cube and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson during his film career – said. Hart’s collaborations have resulted in numerous box office hits throughout his career.
What’s more, Kevin is very aware that he’s now become a senior figure on film sets. With numerous film credits to his name, Hart has become a respected industry veteran whose presence influences production dynamics.
“Leadership is such a dope word to springboard off of, because it’s not about saying you’re in control – it’s about being a great example, right?” the comedian-turned-actor reflected. “And the example that you’re setting or that you’re becoming is one that the studio is paying attention to, one that the partners that are attached to the product are paying attention to, and when you have worked with the purpose, other people will follow that and other people will energize and synergize around that.” Positive leadership on film sets can significantly improve creative outcomes and overall production quality.
Kevin is also conscious that his on-set behavior can have an impact on everyone he works with. The entertainment industry has increasingly focused on workplace culture, with major studios implementing new standards for on-set conduct.
“[Being] number one means that, ‘Hey, I don’t want any bad days the same way that you don’t want bad days, so how do I help position everybody here to have good days?'” the comedy actor said. This philosophy has made Hart a sought-after collaborator, with directors noting his ability to elevate the mood and performance quality on set.
Hart‘s focus on mentorship comes at a time when the entertainment industry is experiencing significant transformation, with new platforms creating more opportunities for diverse talent. His approach to supporting newcomers reflects an understanding of how the industry ecosystem thrives through continuous renewal and fresh perspectives.
Through his production company, HartBeat Productions, he has committed to developing projects that showcase new voices and perspectives. The company works on various projects, many featuring first-time directors or writers from diverse backgrounds.
Hart’s emphasis on supporting the next generation aligns with broader industry trends toward more collaborative and inclusive production environments. His recognition of the importance of creating pathways for those coming after him demonstrates both business acumen and personal integrity.
As Hart continues to expand his influence beyond acting into producing and business ventures, his commitment to creating pathways for emerging talent remains central to his professional identity. This approach not only helps newcomers but also ensures the continued vitality and relevance of the entertainment industry as a whole.
