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Wanda Sykes and Deon Cole Join Kevin Hart in BET+’s First Original Adult Animated Series ‘Lil Kev’

BET+ is stepping into the world of animation with Lil Kev, its first original adult animated series, inspired by Kevin Hart’s childhood in North Philly. Created by Hart and produced by his company Hartbeat, the half-hour comedy is set to premiere in spring 2025

The series will star Hart alongside fellow comedy heavyweights Wanda Sykes and Deon Cole. Sykes will play Nancy, Kevin’s hard-working, God-fearing mother, while Cole takes on the role of Uncle Richard Jr., Nancy’s freshly swole, ex-con younger brother whose hustle knows no bounds. Additional casting announcements are still to come.

Set in 1993, Lil Kev follows 12-year-old Kevin as he tries to balance his wild imagination and unshakable optimism with the tough realities of growing up in North Philly. Nancy is holding it down as an ER nurse while also trying to keep Kev on the straight and narrow—a near-impossible task with a mischievous older brother blazing all the wrong trails, a dad constantly scheming to win her back, and an uncle whose advice is as chaotic as it is hilarious.

 

“This project is incredibly close to my heart,” Kevin Hart shared in a statement. “Bringing Lil Kev to life with legends like Wanda and Deon is a dream. It’s a love letter to Philly, the place that shaped me, and I can’t wait for the world to meet this hilarious crew.”

Scott Mills, President and CEO of BET Media Group, echoed Hart’s excitement, calling the series a major step for the platform. “Kevin Hart’s comedic genius has resonated with our audiences for years. With Lil Kev, we’re introducing a bold, fresh take on animation that celebrates his roots and delivers culturally rich storytelling,” said Mills.

The series is produced by Hartbeat, with Kevin Hart, Bryan Smiley, Jeff Clanagan, Mike Stein, and Candice Wilson Cherry serving as executive producers. Matthew Claybrooks and Michael Price are both EPs and showrunners, while ShadowMachine, the animation studio behind the series, brings the visuals to life. BET+ executives Jason Harvey and Rose Catherine Pinkney will also executive produce the project.

As BET+ continues to expand its content offerings, Lil Kev stands out as a unique addition to the platform, blending raw humor with heartfelt storytelling. With an all-star cast and an authentic narrative rooted in Hart’s real-life experiences, this series is poised to be a standout hit.

Keep an eye out for Lil Kev when it debuts on BET+ this spring—this animated love letter to Philly is one you won’t want to miss!

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