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Kevin Hart and Netflix Are Hunting for America’s Funniest New Comedian

Kevin Hart isn’t just telling jokes these days — he’s scouting for the next person who can. In 2026, Hart will team up with Netflix for a new comedy competition…

Kevin Hart speaks onstage during the 88th Annual Academy Awards
Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Kevin Hart isn’t just telling jokes these days — he’s scouting for the next person who can. In 2026, Hart will team up with Netflix for a new comedy competition series that promises to pull back the curtain on the grind, glory, and gut-busting reality of stand-up life. And here’s the best part: casting is open right now.

According to Netflix, he eight-episode series will put contestants through challenges that mirror the real-life journey of a comedian. We’re talking about nerve-racking open mics, sets that flop, late-night rewrites, and the rush of performing on a big stage. The tasks are inspired by the actual career moments of the comics guiding the show.

Who’s Running the Show

Kevin Hart will executive produce alongside Jane Lipsitz, Dan Cutforth, Nan Strait, and Dan Volpe from Alfred Street Industries, plus Luke Kelly-Clyne and Meghan Hoffman from Hartbeat.

Alfred Street is known for reality hits like Next Gen Chef, Is It Cake?, and the Emmy-winning Sparking Joy with Marie Kondo. Hartbeat, Hart’s own company, has delivered global comedy showcases like Comedy in Color, Hulu’s LOL Live, and the revival of Comic View on BET.

Think You’re Funny Enough?

If you believe you’ve got the timing, wit, and fearlessness to crush it on stage, this could be your shot. Netflix and Kevin Hart are looking for the boldest, funniest, and most original voices in America and they’re accepting auditions now. Those interested can check out more info here.

Kayla is the midday host on Detroit’s 105.1 The Bounce. She started her career in radio back in 2016 as an intern at another Detroit station and worked her way here. She's made stops in Knoxville, TN, Omaha, Ne and other places before returning to Detroit. She’s done almost everything in radio from promotions to web, creating content on social media, you name it. She’s a true Michigander, born and raised. So, you can catch her camping or vacationing up north to exploring the downtown Detroit or maybe even catching a sports game. During her free time, Kayla enjoys watching movies, roller-skating, crafting, and music festivals. She and her husband together dip into many of the great things Michigan has to offer. Together they also like to travel. A few hobbies of hers include wine and beer tastings, crafting, hiking, roller skating, movies, home improvement projects, gardening, and festivals. She’s always looking to take on more local events happening in the community. She loves connecting with the community. When writing, Kayla covers topics including lifestyle, pop culture, trending stories, hacks, and urban culture.