Netflix and Kevin Hart Team Up to Find America’s Next Funniest Comedian in New Comedy Competition Coming in 2026

Netflix and global superstar Kevin Hart are on a mission to crown the next big name in stand-up with a new comedy competition series. Guided by Kevin Hart and a crew of comedy titans (TBA at a later date), this unfiltered, uncensored, and unapologetic competition will pull back the curtain on the gritty, hilarious, and often unpredictable path of a stand-up career.

Contestants from all across the nation will face rigorous tests that mirror the real-life journey of a comedian – from brutal open mics to bombed sets, rewrites and the pressure of big-stage performances. The competition will give viewers an unvarnished look behind the curtain of comedy’s darkest corners and brightest spotlights with the challenges inspired by comics’ actual career trajectories.

Casting Call: Think you’ve got what it takes? Apply now by visiting standupcompetitioncasting.com.

Format: 8 episodes

Production Companies: Hartbeat and Alfred Street Industries

Executive Producers: Kevin Hart; Jane Lipsitz, Dan Cutforth, Nan Strait, and Dan Volpe (for Alfred Street Industries); Luke Kelly-Clyne and Meghan Hoffman (for Hartbeat)

Premiere Date: 2026

ABOUT HARTBEAT: Founded by Kevin Hart, Hartbeat is the global, multi-platform entertainment company creating content and experiences at the intersection of comedy and culture – with a mission to keep the world laughing together. Hartbeat finances, develops, and produces content for all platforms; connects with consumers around the world through events and the company’s expansive distribution network; and co-creates entertainment and builds award-winning IP alongside brands. Hartbeat’s flagship consumer brand, the LOL! Network, reaches audiences across its O&O social media, audio, and OTT partners. Led by an award-winning team, Hartbeat is a valuable partner to the biggest entertainment companies, platforms and brands in the world, driving cultural currency and generating sales, subscriptions, buzz, and conversation with some of the most coveted audiences.

This untitled comedy competition series is a continuation of Hartbeat’s commitment to championing the next generation of comedic voices. The company’s signature stand-up work includes the global comedy showcase Comedy in Color (featuring over 300 comedians from more than 30 countries); Hulu’s LOL Live, which features both established and emerging talent; the recent revival of Comic View on BET; and producing stand up series for notable comedians including London Hughes, Affion Crockett and the late David A. Arnold. Hartbeat also launched the career incubator program Women Write Now, designed to champion the next generation of Black women in comedy both in front of and behind the camera.