Kevin Hart is stepping into the world of animation with his highly anticipated new series, Lil Kev. Set to premiere exclusively on BET+, the show is a nostalgic yet comedic take on Hart’s upbringing in North Philadelphia during the early ‘90s.
What Is ‘Lil Kev’ About?
The animated series follows 12-year-old Kevin, a kid navigating the tough realities of his neighborhood with endless optimism. According to the official synopsis:
“His mom works nights, his brother’s a troublemaker, his dad wants back in, and his uncle gives dubious advice – but Kev keeps hustling.”
Bringing this hilarious yet heartfelt story to life is a star-studded cast, featuring some of comedy’s biggest names.
Meet the ‘Lil Kev’ Cast
The series boasts a powerhouse lineup of comedic talent:
- Kevin Hart as Lil Kev
- Wanda Sykes as Nancy Hart, Kevin’s no-nonsense mother
- Deon Cole as Uncle Richard Jr.
- Cree Summer, a voice-acting legend known for Rugrats and The Proud Family
- Affion Crockett, comedian and actor
- Jamar Neighbors, rising comedy star
- Jess Hilarious, social media personality and comedian
- Ms. Pat (Patricia Williams), stand-up comedian and actress
With this cast, Lil Kev is bound to deliver laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt storytelling.
Kevin Hart Opens Up About the Series’ Creation
In an exclusive interview with BET, Hart shared that Lil Kev had been in development for years, and he was thrilled to finally bring it to life.
“Now was the right time to do it because it finally came to life. I’ve been trying to develop it for the longest. Any opportunity that I can tell my story, I jump to it.”
For Hart, recreating his childhood through animation allows him to explore personal experiences with humor and relatability.
“I can go and get raw, but give you a reason to laugh through the animation and delivery.”
Why Wanda Sykes Jumped at the Role
Comedy veteran Wanda Sykes, who plays Kevin’s mother, was immediately drawn to the series.
“It was very well written. I just got who she was. And the big thing is… I got to yell at Kevin,” Sykes joked. “I just loved that. I would skip to work. And I praise God that I got this part where I just get into him. Just yell at him. It’s beautiful.”
Her character is expected to bring both comedic and emotional depth, as she portrays the strong, hardworking single mother who shaped Hart’s real-life journey.
Kevin Hart’s Legacy in Comedy and Entertainment
With a diverse career spanning stand-up, blockbuster films, and now animation, Kevin Hart is cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in entertainment.
“You’re just trying to create an amazing resume at the end of the day. It’s like a vision board,” Hart explained. “What do I want it to mean? Is it for me to say, or is it for other people to say, like, ‘Here’s your legacy because here’s what you were to us’? And then I’m able to say, ‘Oh my God. Thank you.’”
Final Thoughts
With Lil Kev, Hart is offering fans a glimpse into his early years while delivering the signature humor and charm that made him a global star.
Will this series be another hit in his growing empire? Tune in to BET+ to find out!
