Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat CEO Thai Randolph Stepping Down; Hart To Serve As Interim Chief Exec
After nearly seven years at the helm, Hartbeat CEO Thai Randolph is stepping down.
Randolph is exiting “to pursue new endeavors”, according to the announcement, but will remain a strategic advisor to Hartbeat Chairman Kevin Hart, who will serve as Interim CEO until a permanent successor is named.
More from Deadline
“It’s been a great honor to help shape Hartbeat into the powerhouse entertainment platform it has become. I couldn’t be prouder of the meteoric growth and incredible impact we’ve driven over the years. My passions are telling stories and building businesses, and for the past seven years, I’ve been able to do just that alongside some of the best partners, colleagues, and creators in the industry. As I move on to further explore those passions, I will continue to cheer on the Hartbeat team as they advance the ever-important mission of keeping the world laughing together,” says Randolph.
“Thai has played a significant role in the growth of my previous ventures and the company we enjoy today in Hartbeat. I want to sincerely thank her for everything she has contributed to make Hartbeat the undisputed number-one source of comedic storytelling, and I know she will continue to find success in her next chapter,” said Hart. “This company and its mission are deeply personal to me, and I’m looking forward to rolling up my sleeves as Interim CEO alongside our fantastic team. Stay tuned!”
Randolph led the 2022 deal that merged Hart’s two entertainment companies Hartbeat Productions and Laugh Out Loud to form the new entity, Hartbeat, and raised $100M from Abry Partners to fuel its growth. Randolph is credited with helping the company double in size “to become one the fastest-growing and most sought after creative engines for platforms, streamers, and brands.” The company released 20+ projects in 2022 and has already released 18 projects in 2023, with 70+ more in development, according to the release. Hartbeat recently opened three new offices, including its new Los Angeles headquarters. It was also acknowledged as one of Fast Company’s “Most Innovative Companies” of 2023.
Prior to her role as CEO, Randolph held positions as President & COO of Laugh Out Loud and COO of HartBeat Productions, where she co-led the Laugh Out Loud’s capital raise and partnership deal with NBCUniversal’s Peacock and founded Women Write Now — a first-of-its-kind screenwriting fellowship developed in partnership with the Sundance Institute, to champion the next generation of Black women in comedy through mentorship, advocacy, production, and exhibition.
Hartbeat operates three divisions: Hartbeat Studios, which finances, develops and produces innovative content; Hartbeat Media, which connects with consumers around the world through events and the company’s expansive distribution network; and Pulse, the company’s branded entertainment studio. Its flagship consumer brand, the LOL! Network, reaches audiences across its O&O social media, audio, and OTT partners.
Best of Deadline
SAG-AFTRA Interim Agreements: Full List Of Movies And TV Series
Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2023: Photo Gallery & Obituaries
2023 Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming
Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
