American actor Kevin Hart has inked a deal with Authentic Brands Group, giving the IP licensing giant rights to his name, with Hart becoming a shareholder in the firm.

Hart and Authentic Brands Group will subsequently also co-manage the 'Kevin Hart' brand, and Hart commented '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. Becoming a shareholder allows me to co-own some of the most recognisable IP of all time while building my own brand legacy'.