Celebrity News
Kevin Hart’s Media Company Reportedly Under Fire Amid Layoffs and Chaos Behind the Scenes
Kevin Hart may have been getting roasted over the weekend during his Netflix special, but according to a new report, it’s his media company that may be going up in flames.
In a Sunday, May 10, Bloomberg exposé, the financial outlet spoke with multiple current and former employees to describe what they are calling the beginning of the end at Hartbeat, where Hart works as chairman and CEO.
According to Bloomberg, Hartbeat — which was once reportedly valued at around $650 million — has “shriveled over the past few years.”
The company reportedly laid off approximately one quarter of its staff (about 20 people) days before Thanksgiving in 2024, and apparently, the 46-year-old comedian changed his phone number shortly thereafter.
Hartbeat’s website describes the company as a team of industry leaders seeking to “build the biggest entertainment brand in the world.”
However, according to Bloomberg, the company allegedly fired the heads of its scripted TV division as well as others in marketing, social media and brand partnerships departments. The podcast division was also reportedly hit.
Meanwhile, Hart has allegedly been lying low throughout it all. Bloomberg reported that he left others in charge of day-to-day operations and that staff meetings have been canceled.
In January, Hart announced that he’d licensed his name to Authentic Brands Group, a company behind celebrity brands.
Per Bloomberg, the announcement made no mention of Hartbeat; however, it reportedly gave him money to buy out his private equity partner and regain control of the use of his name.
Hart appeared to address the alleged behind-the-scenes chaos in an email said to be from “Kevin AKA Boss Man.” Bloomberg reported it was actually sent by Hart’s assistant.
“This is a turning point for Hartbeat,” the company wrote to employees, explaining that the deal with Authentic would free Hart up while allowing Hartbeat to grow.
“I know the past few months have been tough,” the email reportedly said.
