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Die Hart
Official poster
GenreComedy
Action-adventure
Screenplay byTripper Clancy
Story byTripper Clancy
Derek Kolstad
Directed byEric Appel
Josh Ruben
Starring
Country of originUnited States
Original languageEnglish
No. of seasons3
No. of episodes25
Production
Executive producers
  • Bryan Smiley
  • Candice Wilson
  • Jeff Clanagan
  • Kevin Hart
  • Luke Kelly-Clyne
  • Mike Stein
  • Kevin Healey
Camera setupSingle-camera
Running time10 minutes
Production companyLOL Studios
Original release
NetworkQuibi (season 1)
The Roku Channel (season 2–present)
ReleaseJuly 20, 2020 (2020-07-20) –
present

Die Hart is an American comedy action-adventure television series that premiered on the streaming service Quibi on July 20, 2020. The series stars Kevin Hart as a fictionalized version of himself, with John Travolta, Nathalie Emmanuel and Josh Hartnett playing supporting roles in the first season. The series received seven nominations at the Primetime Emmy Awards for the actors' performances.[1][2]

The first season was re-edited into a feature film (also titled Die Hart) released on Prime Video in February 2023.[3] Following the success of the first season and the closure of Quibi, the second season was released on The Roku Channel in March 2023. Like its first season, the second season was re-edited into a feature film (titled Die Hart 2: Die Harter) released on Prime Video in May 2024.

Cast and characters

[edit]

Main

[edit]
  • Kevin Hart as himself, a Hollywood actor who wishes to become an action hero, and refuses to be seen as a laughing stock. He goes off on a talk show, which ultimately causes his career to plummet. He is offered a role in an action film directed by Claude and is forced to join an action star training camp led by Ron.
    • Hart also plays Doug Eubanks, his stunt double (season 2)
  • John Travolta as Ron Wilcox (season 1), the owner and operator of an action star boot camp that Kevin becomes a student of, yet at the start of the series he openly dislikes Kevin.
  • Nathalie Emmanuel as Jordan King, a female student who befriends Kevin despite their awkward relations. She mentions halfway through the series that she's from Chicago, but at the penultimate episodes she drops her American accent to reveal she's actually from Essex, UK.
  • Josh Hartnett as himself (season 1), an actor who is friends with Ron, and a former student of his boot camp.
  • Ben Schwartz as Andre (season 2), Kevin Hart's assistant, who is very loyal to Hart, despite his belittlement[4]
  • Paula Pell as Cynthia (season 2)[4]
  • John Cena as Mr. 206 (season 2)[4]
  • Anna Garcia as Pearl, a supposed Juilliard-trained actress who ingratiates herself with Kevin (season 3)
  • Tony Cavalero as Agent Fisher, the FBI agent assigned to track down Kevin for murder (season 3)
  • Kathryn Hahn as Jillian Jones, a famous character actress with impeccable skills of impersonation who wants to move into directing (season 3)
  • J. K. Simmons as Jackson Pepper, a gruff, perfectionist Hollywood director and living legend who Kevin approaches for a role in his new film (season 3)

Recurring

[edit]
  • Jean Reno as Claude Van De Velde, the European director of Kevin's new film, who forces him to take part in a training camp to develop the skills needed to play an action hero (season 1)
  • Brandon Quinn as Danny Morrison, Kevin’s manager.

Episodes

[edit]

Series overview

[edit]
SeasonEpisodesOriginally released
First releasedLast releasedNetwork
110July 20, 2020 (2020-07-20)July 29, 2020 (2020-07-29)Quibi
28March 31, 2023 (2023-03-31)The Roku Channel
37December 13, 2024 (2024-12-13)

Season 1 (2020)

[edit]
No.
overall		No. in
season		Title [5]Directed byWritten byOriginal release dateProd.
code [5]
11"The Recruit"Eric AppelDerek Kolstad & Tripper ClancyJuly 20, 2020 (2020-07-20)101
Actor and comedian Kevin Hart unexpectedly goes off on a talk show on how he is unhappy that he is seen as a laughing stock, mocking his fans and the audience. His career goes sideways following the incident, but he is later offered a starring role in a new action film that could revive his career. Director of the film, Claude Van De Velde, insists he train at a strange, secluded action star boot camp before filming led by Ron Wilcox (John Travolta).
22"Man on Fire"Eric AppelDerek Kolstad & Tripper ClancyJuly 20, 2020 (2020-07-20)102
Kevin settles into the boot camp in undesirable conditions. Ron tests Kevin’s abilities by having him save a dummy version of himself from a burning building. Kevin barely escapes and Ron ridicules him.
33"Wonder Woman"Eric AppelDerek Kolstad & Tripper ClancyJuly 20, 2020 (2020-07-20)103
44"Sex, Lies and Videotape"Eric AppelDerek Kolstad & Tripper ClancyJuly 21, 2020 (2020-07-21)104
55"The Truman Show"Eric AppelDerek Kolstad & Tripper ClancyJuly 22, 2020 (2020-07-22)105
66"The Godfather"Eric AppelDerek Kolstad & Tripper ClancyJuly 23, 2020 (2020-07-23)106
77"The Great Escape"Eric AppelDerek Kolstad & Tripper ClancyJuly 24, 2020 (2020-07-24)107
88"Bad Boys"Eric AppelDerek Kolstad & Tripper ClancyJuly 27, 2020 (2020-07-27)108
99"Live Free or Die Hard"Eric AppelDerek Kolstad & Tripper ClancyJuly 28, 2020 (2020-07-28)109
1010"True Lies"Eric AppelDerek Kolstad & Tripper ClancyJuly 29, 2020 (2020-07-29)110

Season 2 (2023)

[edit]
No.
overall		No. in
season		TitleDirected byWritten byOriginal release date
111"Hart Broken"Eric AppelTripper ClancyMarch 31, 2023 (2023-03-31)
122"Escape From Hell"Eric AppelTripper ClancyMarch 31, 2023 (2023-03-31)
133"The Legend of Stromberg"Eric AppelTripper ClancyMarch 31, 2023 (2023-03-31)
144"Like Mother Like Son"Eric AppelTripper ClancyMarch 31, 2023 (2023-03-31)
155"The Famous Mondolvias"Eric AppelTripper ClancyMarch 31, 2023 (2023-03-31)
166"Episode Mr. 206"Eric AppelTripper ClancyMarch 31, 2023 (2023-03-31)
177"Licensed and Bonded"Eric AppelTripper ClancyMarch 31, 2023 (2023-03-31)
188"Face Off"Eric AppelTripper ClancyMarch 31, 2023 (2023-03-31)

Season 3 (2024)

[edit]
No.
overall		No. in
season		TitleDirected byWritten byOriginal release date
191"The Peanut Man"Josh RubenTripper ClancyDecember 13, 2024 (2024-12-13)
Kevin's attempt to take on a more challenging and dramatic role, the George Washington Carver biopic Peanut Man, fails miserably at the box office. He confesses to Danny that he wants to finally be recognized with an Oscar for his acting. For help, he meets with previous Oscar winner Jillian Jones as she engages in method acting for a role as a line cook. Despite slicing off the tip of her finger while distracted by Kevin's questions, Jillian sends him to meet with her friend, the legendary filmmaker Jackson Pepper. Jackson is unimpressed by Kevin and asks if he would be willing to "kill" for a shot at a role in his new movie. When Kevin says yes, Jackson attacks him and the actor winds up killing him in self-defense.
202"The Relatively Small Package"Josh RubenTripper ClancyDecember 13, 2024 (2024-12-13)
For the last two years, Jordan, hoping to score a role in Jackson's movie, has committed numerous crimes as a professional cat burglar using her acting skills and combat training. Increasingly disillusioned with a life of crime, she complains to her agent; the agent's response is that working with Jackson Pepper is her only chance to rise above being an otherwise forgettable stage actor. Jordan's "handler" has her steal car keys from a locker at a bus station, during which she manages to outwit FBI Agent Fisher in a sting operation. Following a preprogrammed route in the car's navigation system, Jordan arrives at a mailbox containing instructions to act as getaway driver for a "screaming man". Just then, Kevin comes running up and asks her for help.
213"The Fisher King"Josh RubenTripper ClancyDecember 13, 2024 (2024-12-13)
Both Jordan and Kevin are confused by each other's presence and start peppering the other with questions. Jordan admits that she is technically working for an audition with Jackson, to which Kevin confesses to having killed him. A shocked Jordan suggests going to the police, but Kevin refuses out of fear. Fisher takes control of the crime scene and quickly obtains evidence and video footage proving that Kevin is guilty of Jackson's murder. Jordan asks Kevin about his fear, and he notes that no black male actor would ever receive the benefit of the doubt from cops. When Jordan brings up O.J. Simpson, Kevin snaps and tries to wrest control of the car. This results in the pair striking a woman who steps in front of them and sending her flying.
224"The Vacuum from Sarasota"Josh RubenTripper ClancyDecember 13, 2024 (2024-12-13)
Kevin places the seemingly dead woman in the car and takes over driving, but just as he and Jordan are arguing over whether to take the body to a hospital, the woman surprises them and reveals that she only injured her arm. Kevin pulls over and demands answers. The woman, who introduces herself as Pearl, says that she is also an actress who previously met with Jackson about his movie. In turn, Jackson instructed her to allow herself to be run over by Kevin and Jordan, and that if she survived, her role was to become their "rock". Thinking over what to do next, Kevin decides to check the crime scene of Jackson's murder. With no other options, he contacts Jimmy and is provided with a forensic cleaner's disguise and fake beard.
235"The Legend of Lionel Pendergrass"Josh RubenTripper ClancyDecember 13, 2024 (2024-12-13)
Putting on Jimmy's disguise, Kevin uses method acting to assume the identity of "Lionel Pendergrass". Through a combination of fast talking and quick improvisation, "Lionel" is able to access the crime scene without an ID and soon runs into Fisher. He convinces Fisher that the area is being contaminated and that he needs immediate access to all the evidence gathered so far. While Fisher is distracted, Kevin slips into the bathroom and stuffs the physical evidence in a toilet before escaping with the videos. Jordan and Pearl have a heart-to-heart about their careers, and Jordan urges Pearl to not repeat her mistakes by letting others tell her what roles to take. Just then, Kevin returns; Fisher suddenly appears and takes the group into custody.
246"The Face of Guffey Light"Josh RubenTripper ClancyDecember 13, 2024 (2024-12-13)
Fisher shoves Kevin in the trunk of his car while Pearl and Jordan are restrained and put in the back. As they drive off, Pearl confesses to Jordan that she is not, in fact, a trained actress, but simply wanted to impress her. Touched, Jordan admits her past crimes and wins Pearl's affection for "sharing her truth". Pearl also recognizes Fisher for his past work as an actor in beer commercials; this results in Fisher sharing his life story of being an aspiring actor so eager to win Jackson's approval that he joined the FBI and spent ten years "researching" a possible future role. Believing that his hard work is now in vain because of Kevin's meddling, he takes the group to a remote waste disposal plant and reveals his intention to murder them in an act of vengeance.
257"The Code of Hammurabi"Josh RubenTripper ClancyDecember 13, 2024 (2024-12-13)
As Fisher prepares to kill him, Kevin performs an off-the-cuff, fully ad-libbed monologue while Jordan cuts through her restraints. Moved by Kevin's humility, Fisher is about to let him go only for Kevin to mock him by admitting that he made it all up. Jordan then punches him out cold and frees Kevin and Pearl. Jackson then appears and reveals that his "murder" was an elaborate deception using props and special effects, assisted by Jillian who used prosthetic makeup to disguise herself as a coroner. He explains his actions by stating that the group needed to demonstrate the ability to completely disappear into their roles, while coldly dismissing Fisher for "breaking character". Eighteen months later, Kevin, Pearl, and Jordan are all Oscar winners, while Jackson wins another Oscar for his directing. As the group celebrates, he excuses himself; it is then revealed that "Jackson" is actually Jillian in more prosthetics, having beat Jackson to death and taken his place to finally prove herself as a director.

Production

[edit]

On September 17, 2020, Quibi renewed the series for a second season.[6][7][8] In January 2021, Quibi's content library was sold to Roku, Inc. for less than $100 million.[9] The series was rebranded as a "Roku Original",[10][11] and moved to The Roku Channel on May 20. Following viewership success, Roku renewed the series for a second season, which premiered on March 31, 2023.[12]

When asked about the renewal at Roku, CEO of LOL Studios Jeff Clanagan said:

"The return of Die Hart marks a pivotal moment in the continued growth and expansion of LOL Studios. We’re excited for the opportunity to team up with Roku and be the first Roku Original to get a second season. We can’t wait for fans to dive into what is sure to be an even bigger, more action-packed season two."[12]

In April 2023, the series was renewed for a third season, which premiered on December 13, 2024.[13][14]

Casting

[edit]

Kevin Hart stars as a fictionalized version of himself in both seasons. The first season features John Travolta and Nathalie Emmanuel in supporting roles. On September 21, 2022, John Cena, Ben Schwartz and Paula Pell were cast in the second season in supporting roles, with Emmanuel confirmed to return alongside Hart.[4]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Die Hart

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Die Hart is an American television series created by and Tripper Clancy that stars comedian as a fictionalized version of himself who, tired of being typecast as a comedic , enrolls in an elite action star training program to fulfill his dream of becoming a leading man in action films. The series follows Hart's character as he navigates the perilous world of action cinema, training under eccentric mentors and facing real-life dangers while attempting to land a breakout role offered by a renowned director. Premiering on the short-form streaming platform on July 20, 2020, Die Hart was initially released as a series of 10-minute episodes across its first season, with subsequent seasons airing on . The series comprises three seasons and 25 episodes, with the third season premiering on December 13, 2024, on . Key supporting characters include as Jordan King, Hart's loyal best friend and fellow aspiring actress who joins him in the training program; as Ron Wilcox, the Hollywood director who kickstarts Hart's journey; and as Claude Van De Velde, a tough instructor at the action school. appears in a recurring role, adding to the ensemble of industry figures and action archetypes. The series blends meta-humor, high-stakes action sequences, and satirical takes on Hollywood tropes, with Hart also serving as an . Produced by Hart's Laugh Out Loud banner in association with Lionsgate Television, Die Hart was filmed primarily in Atlanta, Georgia, and draws on Kolstad's experience from the John Wick franchise for its stunt work and action choreography. Directors such as Eric Appel have helmed episodes, contributing to the show's fast-paced, episodic structure originally designed for mobile viewing on Quibi. Following Quibi's shutdown in late 2020, the content was repackaged and re-released on other platforms, including adaptations into feature-length movies for broader accessibility. Critically, the first season holds an 80% approval rating on based on limited reviews, praised for its self-aware and energetic action, though scores are lower at 44%, with some directed at the format and pacing. On , the series averages 5.3 out of 10 from over 7,600 user ratings, reflecting a mixed reception that highlights Hart's charismatic performance amid polarizing humor. The series has received several award nominations, including multiple at the for outstanding performances in short-form or series. In 2025, season 3 received three Primetime Emmy nominations for outstanding performer in a short-form or series.

Overview

Premise

Die Hart is an American comedy action-adventure series that follows a fictionalized version of , who grows frustrated with being typecast in comedic sidekick roles and embarks on a quest to become a leading action star. To achieve this transformation, Hart enrolls in a secretive, elite boot camp designed to train aspiring actors in the high-stakes world of action cinema, where participants undergo intense physical and mental trials to master stunts, combat, and . The series blends satirical humor with action tropes, incorporating meta-commentary on Hollywood's dynamics and the challenges of breaking into the action genre. At the heart of the is Hart's arc, centered on his rivalry with other trainees and guidance from a demanding instructor, Claude Van De Velde (), who pushes him through grueling challenges that test his limits and comedic resilience, alongside support from his best friend and fellow trainee (). Key conflicts arise from the boot camp's unforgiving environment, including high-risk simulations and interpersonal tensions among ambitious actors vying for stardom. The show explores themes of reinvention and perseverance, using exaggerated action sequences to lampoon the while highlighting Hart's real-life in a self-aware manner. Across its seasons, the premise evolves from the foundational training phase in the first season, where Hart hones his skills in a controlled academy setting, to subsequent installments that thrust him into increasingly authentic, high-danger action scenarios that blur the lines between scripted roles and reality, including a revenge plot in Season 3 (2024) where he enlists allies to survive. This progression underscores the series' core framework of comedic trial-by-fire, as Hart navigates escalating threats and alliances to solidify his action hero credentials.

Format and production style

Die Hart was originally formatted as a short-form series for , with episodes running 7 to 10 minutes each to optimize for vertical mobile viewing on smartphones. This structure aligned with 's emphasis on quick, episodic content tailored for on-the-go consumption, allowing viewers to watch in brief sessions. After 's closure in late 2020, the series transitioned to , where season 1 was re-edited and re-released, and later seasons extended to 10 to 15 minutes per episode to better suit traditional streaming formats while retaining the bite-sized accessibility. The production style draws heavily from action-comedy , presenting a satirical take on Hollywood blockbusters and the challenges of transitioning from comedic roles to action heroism. stars as a meta version of himself, enrolled in an elite "action star school" to shed his sidekick image, with the narrative lampooning tropes like high-stakes training regimens and explosive set pieces reminiscent of films such as . Episodes typically follow a rhythmic structure: introductory comedic setups, montage-style training sequences filled with exaggerated failures and physical humor, and concluding action beats that propel the plot forward in the short runtime. To evoke the feel of big-budget action productions on a modest scale, the series prioritizes practical stunts and effects over heavy CGI, showcasing real-time for fights, chases, and mishaps that highlight Hart's comedic timing and physicality. Guest appearances by established action icons, such as as Ron Wilcox, the director, amplify the spoof by blurring lines between and homage. This approach, produced under LOL Studios, balances low-stakes humor with adrenaline-pumping sequences, ensuring the parody remains lighthearted yet visually engaging.

Cast and characters

Main

Kevin Hart stars as a fictionalized version of himself, a renowned disillusioned with his career of playing comedic sidekicks and determined to reinvent himself as a leading . Motivated by a quest for creative fulfillment and industry respect, Hart's character leaves behind his stand-up success to enroll in an elite training program, facing physical and professional challenges to prove his viability in high-stakes action roles. This portrayal draws on Hart's real-life persona while exaggerating his insecurities and ambitions to drive the series' central narrative. Nathalie Emmanuel portrays Jordan King, Hart's loyal best friend and fellow aspiring actress who joins him in the training program. Initially serving as a rival student at the academy, she is a tough, savvy up-and-coming actress frustrated with her own , evolving into a trusted collaborator and partner in their action adventures across seasons. Ben Schwartz depicts Andre, Hart's devoted personal assistant introduced in the second season, who injects as an overly enthusiastic enduring constant ribbing yet remaining steadfastly supportive. Andre's eager involvement in the group's schemes adds levity and loyalty to the core ensemble, enhancing the narrative's blend of humor and adventure. Paula Pell appears as Cynthia, Andre's quirky mother who joins the main action in later seasons, contributing to plot progression through her protective instincts and comedic interference in high-stakes scenarios. Her role amplifies family dynamics within the team, influencing decisions that escalate the series' escalating threats and escapades.

Recurring

portrays Ron Wilcox, the eccentric founder and head instructor of an elite boot camp, serving as a mentor to Kevin Hart's character while satirizing the tropes of Hollywood action stardom through exaggerated training regimens and over-the-top motivational speeches. Wilcox's role draws on Travolta's own in action films, positioning him as a of legendary coaches who have shaped stars like and , and he appears across multiple episodes in season 1 to guide Hart through perilous simulations that highlight the physical and comedic demands of the genre. Jean Reno portrays Claude Van De Velde, a renowned Hollywood director who offers Hart the opportunity for a breakout action role but requires him to complete training at the boot camp first. As a tough instructor figure, he oversees aspects of the program and provides pivotal guidance, appearing in season 1 to drive the plot and emphasize the high stakes of Hart's transformation. Josh Hartnett plays a fictionalized version of himself in season 1, emerging as Kevin Hart's primary rival at the boot camp—a smug, competitively antagonistic and former student of Ron Wilcox who embodies the archetype of the effortlessly cool , often undermining Hart's efforts with sly one-upmanship and displays of superior prowess. Hartnett's character contributes to the series' humor by contrasting Hart's underdog struggles with his own polished arrogance, fostering ongoing conflict in group training scenes and rivalries that span several episodes. Season 2 introduces as Mr. 206, a reclusive, legendary coordinator living , whose brief but pivotal appearances provide intense, high-stakes training sessions that push Hart's character to confront his limits in action scenarios. Portrayed as a grizzled, crossbow-wielding expert with a no-nonsense demeanor, Mr. 206's role amplifies the season's focus on authentic work, delivering impactful moments of and conflict during Hart's quest for guidance, appearing in key episodes to underscore the raw physicality required for action roles.

Episodes

Series overview

Die Hart is an American action comedy series created by Tripper Clancy and Derek Kolstad, following Hart as a fictionalized version of himself striving to become the next big action star through a series of high-stakes adventures and training regimens. The series comprises three seasons totaling 25 episodes, with episodes averaging around 11 minutes in length.
SeasonEpisodesPremiere DateFinale DateNetwork
1 (2020)10July 20, 2020July 29, 2020Quibi
2 (2023)8March 31, 2023March 31, 2023The Roku Channel
3 (2024)7December 13, 2024December 13, 2024The Roku Channel
Season 1 aired daily on , while Seasons 2 and 3 released all episodes simultaneously on following 's shutdown and content migration. The series achieved notable viewership success, with Season 1 becoming 's biggest show upon its platform addition and Season 2 setting records as the #1 Original TV series premiere weekend.

Season 1 (2020)

Season 1 of Die Hart follows , portraying a fictionalized version of himself, as he abandons his comedic persona to pursue a career as an action star, enrolling in a rigorous boot camp led by the enigmatic Coach Ron Wilcox (). The season introduces the isolated Action Star School, where Hart faces intense physical and mental challenges designed to transform him into a credible , blending high-stakes action sequences with Hart's signature humor through failed stunts and exaggerated mishaps, such as botched wire work and pyrotechnic blunders that highlight his inexperience. The narrative arc builds through Hart's training ordeals, his budding rivalry with fellow student (Nathalie Emmanuel), and suspicions about the school's true purpose, culminating in a chaotic escape and a high-tension finale that tests his resolve for his breakthrough audition. Key comedic set pieces include Hart's humiliating first attempts at fight and drills, underscoring themes of perseverance, self-doubt, and the absurdity of Hollywood's action genre tropes. Guest stars like provide mentorship in early episodes, while embodies a cocky rival, amplifying the competitive tension.
  • Episode 1: "The Recruit" (July 20, 2020): Hart, frustrated with being typecast as a , is offered a lead role in an by director Ron Wilcox but must first attend a secretive boot camp to prove his skills, arriving at the remote facility filled with trepidation.
  • Episode 2: "Man on Fire" (July 20, 2020): Under Coach Ron's brutal regimen, Hart endures his initial session, including fire-walking and combat drills, with guest star appearing as a motivational figure to inspire the recruits.
  • Episode 3: "Wonder Woman" (July 20, 2020): Hart meets , a fierce competitor who joins the class and immediately challenges his abilities during obstacle courses and team exercises, forcing him to confront his physical limitations through a series of failures.
  • Episode 4: "Sex, Lies and Videotape" (July 21, 2020): Coach Ron pushes Hart and to improvise under pressure in "green screen" scenarios, leading to awkward role-playing and deceptive tactics that expose their insecurities in a comedic interrogation-style drill.
  • Episode 5: "The Truman Show" (July 22, 2020): Growing paranoid about surveillance at the school, Hart recruits to investigate Coach Ron's hidden agenda, uncovering clues in a surveillance-themed challenge with guest star as a mysterious instructor.
  • Episode 6: "The Godfather" (July 23, 2020): A alumnus visits the boot camp, prompting Hart to question his commitment amid loyalty tests and mobster-inspired simulations that highlight the school's cult-like intensity.
  • Episode 7: "The Great Escape" (July 24, 2020): Hart attempts to flee the increasingly suspicious program, encountering rival action star in a pursuit sequence that reveals his emerging heroism through improvised action.
  • Episode 8: "Bad Boys" (July 27, 2020): Chaos ensues when returns with unexpected guests, disrupting a buddy-cop exercise and forcing Hart and into unscripted teamwork against simulated threats.
  • Episode 9: "Live Free or Die Hard" (July 28, 2020): Trapped in a deadly cat-and-mouse game within the facility, Hart and apply their to evade pursuers, blending tense chases with humorous gadget malfunctions.
  • Episode 10: "True Lies" (July 29, 2020): In the season's climax, Hart confronts Coach Ron in a ultimate showdown involving explosions and , securing his spot for the action audition and affirming his transformation.

Season 2 (2023)

Season 2 of Die Hart premiered on on March 31, 2023, consisting of eight episodes that follow as he transitions from scripted training scenarios to producing an unscripted , only to encounter escalating real-world perils on actual film sets. The season emphasizes Hart's determination to prove himself as the ultimate action star by staging authentic, documentary-style sequences without studio backing, leading to blurred lines between performance and genuine danger. In the opening episode, "Hart Broken," Hart secures a financier for his innovative project but quickly realizes the production's improvisational nature exposes him to unforeseen risks during an initial heist setup at a , marking his entry into hands-on fraught with unpredictability. This sets the tone as subsequent episodes, such as "Escape From Hell," plunge Hart and his co-star into a botched where scripted chaos turns perilously real, forcing Jordan's reluctant participation and highlighting the hazards of action. The narrative progresses in "The Legend of Stromberg," where Hart and Jordan probe the source of mounting threats, aided by Hart's assistant Andre in a explosive confrontation that parodies high-stakes spy thrillers while introducing lethal authenticity to their endeavors. Character arcs deepen amid the escalating parody of action tropes, with Jordan King's role expanding as she challenges Hart to confront his history of professional callousness, such as mistreating former colleagues, fostering new rivalries born from past grievances. In "Like Mother Like Son," Hart hides out at Andre's home, where interactions with Andre's mother prompt reflections on his flaws, strengthening Andre's loyalty as a key ally and revealing clues to a vengeful plot orchestrated by Hart's fired stunt double, Doug. Episodes like "The Famous Mondolvias" and "Mr. 206" intensify the intrigue, as Andre and infiltrate Hart's agency for intel, and Hart consults legendary stuntman Mr. 206—portrayed in a collaborative sequence blending mentorship and mayhem—to unravel the assassin's identity, amplifying the season's send-up of stunt-heavy blockbusters. The season builds to a crescendo in "Licensed and Bonded" and "," where Hart, , Andre, and his mother deploy over-the-top action movie maneuvers in a break-in to confront the antagonists, parodying explosive finales while navigating near-fatal mishaps that underscore the real dangers of Hart's ambitious vision. The finale delivers a as Hart secures a pivotal role in a major , but a twist reveals potential deception—implying his identity and success may be compromised by the ongoing rivalry—teasing further perils in his quest for action stardom.

Season 3 (2024)

The third season of Die Hart, subtitled Hart to Kill, premiered on December 13, 2024, on , with all seven episodes released simultaneously. In this installment, Kevin Hart's character shifts his aspirations from mere action stunts to earning critical acclaim, enlisting the help of Oscar-winning producer Jillian Jones () to secure a meeting with acclaimed director Jackson Pepper, only for the pursuit to spiral into a murder frame-up, high-stakes heists, and meta explorations of Hollywood fame and authenticity. The season culminates Hart's ongoing journey toward action stardom with plot twists revealing betrayals in the industry, including a shocking reveal about Pepper's identity and a proposed blockbuster film that blurs the lines between reality and performance. New cast members significantly impact the narrative dynamics. portrays Jillian Jones, a skeptical producer who initially aids Hart but harbors ambitions that drive key conflicts, adding layers of intrigue to the meta-commentary on fame. appears as FBI agent , a veteran actor-turned-investigator whose interrogation scenes provide tense confrontations and highlight industry scrutiny, while and Anna Garcia join in supporting roles that enhance the ensemble's comedic action sequences. Returning characters, including as the resourceful thief , deepen the partnership with Hart amid the escalating dangers. The season features high-profile action sequences, such as heists involving nuclear codes and infiltrations of crime scenes, underscoring Hart's evolution through practical stunts and chases that parody blockbuster tropes. Upon its December 13 release, immediate viewer reactions on platforms like praised the twisty plot and guest stars but noted mixed pacing, with an average user rating of 6.3/10 from early reviews.

Episode List

No.TitleSynopsis
1The Peanut ManActor Kevin enlists Oscar-winner Jillian Jones to meet filmmaker Jackson Pepper after a career flop; Pepper doubts Kevin's commitment but frames him for his own murder, thrusting Kevin into peril.
2The Relatively Small PackageJordan King auditions as a thief stealing bonds and nuclear codes for Pepper; she recruits Kevin as a getaway driver after a heist leads them to Pepper's mansion.
3The Fisher KingKevin and Jordan grapple with Jackson's apparent death under FBI scrutiny; agent John Fisher investigates via surveillance, implicating them, and they accidentally kill a woman in the chaos.
4The Vacuum Repairman from SarasotaKevin and Jordan discover the woman faked her death for a role; with ally Pearl, they consult ex-cop Roger Richards, as Kevin infiltrates a crime scene to destroy incriminating evidence.
5The Legend of Lionel PendergrassDisguised as a forensics expert, Kevin tampers with evidence while Jordan and Pearl provide getaway support; he secures surveillance tapes despite rising suspicions.
6[Title not detailed in sources]The duo evades further pursuit as alliances shift, building toward the season's central betrayal.
7J.K. Simmons in The Code of HammurabiCaptured by Fisher, Kevin delivers a persuasive monologue; Jordan frees them, revealing Jackson alive as Jillian Jones, who admits killing the real Pepper for fame and pitches a movie starring Kevin and Jordan.

Production

Development

The series Die Hart originated from Kevin Hart's longstanding aspiration to transition from comedy sidekick roles to leading action hero parts, a desire he first publicly expressed in a comedic bit during his 2016 Netflix special Kevin Hart: Irresponsible, where he parodied an over-the-top action sequence. This concept evolved into a scripted project when Hart, through his production company Hartbeat, partnered with Quibi in July 2019 to develop a short-form comedic action-thriller initially titled Action Scene. Created by writers Tripper Clancy and Derek Kolstad, the series was greenlit for production shortly thereafter, with filming commencing in early 2020 in metro Atlanta. Following its premiere on in July 2020, Die Hart received a swift renewal for a second season in September 2020, reflecting strong initial viewership for the platform's short-form format of 10-minute episodes. However, 's shutdown in October 2020 amid financial challenges led to the acquisition of its content library by in January 2021. subsequently recommitted to the project, officially renewing it for season 2 in June 2021 and relaunching season 1 on in May 2021, where it achieved significant streaming success. The momentum continued into season 3, renewed by Roku in April 2023 after season 2 (Die Hart 2: Die Harter) delivered record-breaking premiere weekend viewership as the platform's top original series launch to date. Production on season 3 wrapped filming in by November 2023 under a interim agreement during the strikes, maintaining the short-form episode structure while incorporating new cast elements. A key creative adaptation occurred in early 2023, when Hartbeat re-edited the original 10-episode season 1 into a 78-minute feature film titled Die Hart: The Movie for release on , allowing broader distribution beyond the episodic mobile-first origins on . Similarly, season 2 was re-edited into the feature film Die Hart 2: Die Harter, released on on May 30, 2024. Season 3 premiered on in December 2024, completing the series' evolution across platforms without further format overhauls announced as of late 2025.

Casting

Kevin Hart cast himself in the lead role of Die Hart, portraying a fictionalized version of himself on a quest to become an action star, a decision aligned with his role as through Hartbeat. Development and initial casting efforts began in 2019 under the working title Action Scene, with auditions held for supporting roles to ensure chemistry among the principal cast, particularly with co-stars like , who was selected as Jordan King for her dynamic partnership with Hart. Emmanuel's casting was announced in February 2020, following her immediate enthusiasm for the script during . For season 1, high-profile additions included as the eccentric trainer Ron Wilcox and in a supporting role, both brought on to amplify the series' parody of action movie tropes and Hollywood stardom; Travolta's involvement was revealed on February 4, 2020, just before production commenced. Season 2 expansions in 2022 featured as the stuntman Mr. 206, cast for his proven expertise in high-risk action sequences from his background and films like Peacemaker, adding realism to the comedic stunts; the announcement came on September 21, 2022. For season 3, and were added as the Oscar-nominated actress Jillian Avery and director Jackson Pepper, respectively, announced on November 19, 2024, to introduce dramatic contrasts within the action-comedy framework.

Filming

for the first season of Die Hart commenced in , Georgia, in February 2020, with production wrapping on March 6, 2020, shortly before the onset of widespread shutdowns in Hollywood. Specific locations included areas around East Point, , and the West End neighborhoods, where action sequences and comedic set pieces were captured. Although filming concluded prior to major restrictions, the series' post-production and premiere occurred amid global health challenges, influencing the platform's short-form format to accommodate remote viewing trends. The closure of in October 2020 significantly impacted subsequent production, delaying the second season despite its renewal announcement just weeks earlier. Rights to the series were acquired by in 2021, allowing filming to resume in and starting in September 2022, with concluding by late that month. This two-year gap from the first season's completion highlighted logistical challenges in transitioning platforms, including renegotiating production deals and securing new financing. For the third season, production returned to in late 2023 under interim agreements during the actors' strike, with authorized on September 29 and wrapping by November. The focus remained on practical stunt work, coordinated by professionals to support Kevin Hart's performance of key action sequences, emphasizing his physical preparation through consistent weight training, HIIT, and cardio regimens developed with trainer Ron "Boss" Everline. These shoots prioritized on-location authenticity for chase scenes and confrontations, minimizing reliance on CGI in favor of tangible effects to enhance the series' comedic-action hybrid style.

Release and distribution

Quibi premiere

Die Hart premiered on the short-form streaming platform on July 20, 2020, with the first season consisting of ten episodes released daily through July 29, allowing viewers to consume the content in quick, mobile-optimized segments. The series was positioned as mobile-first entertainment, aligning with 's "quick bites" model of 7- to 10-minute episodes designed for on-the-go viewing on smartphones and tablets. As a flagship comedy-action offering, Die Hart leveraged Kevin Hart's star power and satirical take on action tropes to draw attention to 's launch slate, featuring Hart as a fictionalized version of himself aspiring to action-hero status alongside co-stars like and . Marketing efforts emphasized Hart's involvement, with official trailers debuting on July 6, 2020, across platforms like and entertainment outlets to build anticipation for the premiere. Hart promoted the series through teasers on , highlighting behind-the-scenes glimpses and his action-hero transformation, while Quibi aired TV spots featuring promotional songs to target broader audiences. These campaigns, including red-band trailers showcasing over-the-top action sequences, underscored the show's blend of humor and high-stakes stunts tailored to Quibi's format. The positive early reception, driven by Hart's comedic appeal and the novelty of the action parody, prompted to renew the series for a second season in September 2020, signaling its role in bolstering the platform's original content appeal before 's shutdown on October 21, 2020.

Roku Channel transition

Following 's announcement of its shutdown on October 21, 2020, with streaming services ceasing on December 1, 2020, acquired the exclusive global distribution rights to its content library, including Die Hart, in January 2021 for less than $100 million. The series was re-released on as a Roku Original in 2021, shifting from Quibi's short-form, mobile-only episodes to full-season availability for binge viewing. Season 2, subtitled Die Hart 2: Die Harter, premiered exclusively on the platform on March 31, 2023. The Roku Channel's free, ad-supported model enhanced accessibility, reaching over 70 million active accounts as of early 2023 and enabling broader distribution without subscription barriers. Marketing efforts highlighted the binge-friendly format and positioned the series as a flagship Roku Original under Kevin Hart's branding, promoting it through platform-wide campaigns and tie-ins. This transition drove significant viewership growth, with Season 2's opening weekend nearly doubling that of Season 1 and ranking as the top Roku Original TV ever in unique views and streaming hours. Season 3 premiered on December 13, 2024, maintaining the series' prominence on the ad-supported service.

Reception

Critical response

Die Hart received mixed critical reception across its seasons, with Season 1 earning an 80% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on five reviews, praised for its energetic take on Kevin Hart's comedic persona transitioning to action roles. Critics highlighted Hart's physical comedy and self-deprecating meta-parodies of action movie tropes, such as his character's futile attempts to embody a stoic hero, which JoBlo described as a "quick, funny, and absolute blast" that mocks 1980s and 1990s clichés while showcasing Hart's versatility. However, the Quibi format's short episodes drew criticisms for making the series feel fragmented and incomplete, akin to "YouTube clips" rather than a cohesive narrative, as noted by RogerEbert.com. Common Sense Media echoed this, rating it 3 out of 5 for adequate but unmemorable humor and action set pieces limited by the platform's constraints. Season 2, rebranded as Die Hart 2: Die Harter and released on , lacked a Tomatometer score due to limited reviews but garnered praise for its celebrity cameos, including and , which Decider called a "genial distraction" bolstered by strong supporting talent and Hart's animated . The season's Hollywood continued to resonate, though some noted the bite-sized format diluted the action spoofing, leading to a 27% audience score on . For Season 3, subtitled Hart to Kill and released in 2024, critical coverage remained sparse with no aggregated scores on Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic as of late 2025, reflecting the series' niche streaming status post-Quibi. Additions like Kathryn Hahn and J.K. Simmons were anticipated to elevate the meta-action blend, with Simmons describing the season as "hilarious" in a Hollywood Reporter interview, emphasizing its egotistical director parody. Earlier seasons' themes of representation in action genres, including less stereotypical portrayals of heroines, were positively noted by star Nathalie Emmanuel in The Hollywood Reporter, crediting the show with evolving tropes through diverse casting and self-aware humor. The Roku transition briefly improved perceptions by allowing fuller episode viewing, though it did not fully overcome format limitations in critic eyes.

Viewership and accolades

Die Hart has garnered notable viewership on following its transition from . The first season, relaunched in May 2021, achieved strong engagement that led to its renewal, with reporting substantial household reach during its initial weeks. The second season, titled Die Hart 2: Die Harter and premiered in March 2023, set benchmarks for the platform by breaking viewership records as the #1 Roku Original TV series weekend premiere of all time, measured by unique views and streaming hours; it nearly doubled the opening weekend audience of the first season. This performance underscored the series' growing popularity and prompted an immediate renewal for a third season. Season 3, Die Hart: Hart to Kill, premiered on December 13, 2024, and continued the series' momentum amid The Channel's expanding audience share, which reached over 1% of total U.S. TV viewing time in Nielsen measurements by mid-2024. Specific metrics for the third season highlight sustained engagement, contributing to 's original content strategy. The series has earned recognition at prestigious awards, reflecting its critical and performative impact. At the in 2021, Die Hart received three nominations in the Outstanding Actor/Actress in a Short Form Comedy or Drama Series category for , , and . In 2025, the third season secured three nominations in the Outstanding Performer in a Short Form Comedy or Drama Series category for , , and . Additionally, Die Hart 3: Hart to Kill won the 2025 Award for Best Writing in a Short Form Series, awarded to writer Tripper Clancy. At the 55th in 2024, and were nominated for Outstanding Performance in a Short Form Series for their work in Die Hart 2: Die Harter. These accolades have highlighted the series' contributions to short-form comedy and elevated 's profile in action-oriented projects through 2025.

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