Kevin Hart Partners with Authentic Brands Group to Scale His Business

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Published by Stephen Oluwadara at January 6, 2026

A Partnership to Expand Authentic’s Global Reach

Authentic produces new products and merchandise for its portfolio brands and can license them for digital media, hospitality, and more. The company has over 50 brands in its portfolio, including rights to names like Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Muhammad Ali, and Michael Jackson. It also has a social media reach of nearly 1 billion followers and generates $32 billion in annual systemwide retail sales globally.

“Kevin is one of the most dynamic entertainers and entrepreneurs of our time,” said Jamie Salter, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Authentic. “His creative vision, business instincts, and cultural impact are unmatched. Kevin sees what we see: the power of brand ownership and the opportunity to build a global, long-term business. His investment in Authentic also reflects our mutual confidence and shared vision for that growth.”

The partnership signifies another meaningful milestone for Authentic as it continues to build one of the world’s most powerful IP ecosystems, fueled by content, culture, and a globally connected partner network. Hart joins a roster of globally influential partners across sports, culture, and entertainment, including David Beckham and Shaquille O’Neal.

Kevin Hart’s Growing Brand Power

Kevin Hart is a renowned comedian, entrepreneur, and actor who has solidified his position as a global entertainment powerhouse. With a career spanning multiple platforms, Hart has garnered numerous accolades, including Emmy and Grammy nominations, and has generated over $4.23 billion in global film revenue.

A recipient of the prestigious 2024 Mark Twain Prize for American Comedy, Hart continues to expand his media empire as Chairman and CEO of Hartbeat, a global multi-platform media company, and Founder of HartBeat Ventures.

This partnership adds to Hart’s already impressive brand power. As part of the deal, the globally recognized comedian, actor, producer, and entrepreneur will become a shareholder in Authentic.

“This partnership is about acceleration, growth, and diversification. I’ve spent years building businesses and creating opportunities, and joining Authentic gives me the platform and global infrastructure to take my brand to the next level,” Hart said.

“Becoming a shareholder allows me to co-own some of the most recognizable IP of all time while building my own brand legacy. I want the Hart name to live on for generations to come and be something that my grandkids and their grandkids will be able to be proud of.”

His brand encompasses high-grossing films, touring, consumer products, and partnerships with Qatar Airways, Netflix, NBCUniversal, JPMorgan Chase, and SharkNinja. He also has at least 292 million followers on social media.

Furthermore, Hart is the owner of Hartbeat Productions, a multi-platform entertainment company. He is also the co-founder of Gran Coramino, a tequila brand that supports small businesses through $10,000 grants and AI-powered training.

Together, Authentic and Hart will expand the Kevin Hart brand across consumer products, cutting-edge digital platforms, collaborations, and live experiences.

Main Image via Flickr