Henry Cavill is set to play alongside Kevin Hart in an upcoming untitled spy action comedy for Netflix.
Both stars have formed close ties with the streaming giant after appearing in several of its major projects. However, Hart has recently faced intense backlash over jokes made during “The Roast of Kevin Hart,” particularly Tony Hinchcliffe’s controversial remark about George Floyd.
The comedian then defended the roast format while admitting that the joke was not particularly “in good taste” for the black community.
Henry Cavill and Kevin Hart join forces for Netflix film
Netflix is pairing two of Hollywood’s biggest and most contrasting stars for its next major blockbuster. According to Variety, Cavill is officially set to star alongside Hart in an upcoming spy action comedy for the streaming giant.
The film, based on a short story by Sean Lewis, follows two rival elite secret agents who are completely unaware of each other’s true identities. Their worlds collide when their pregnant wives become fast friends, forcing the two spy experts to cross paths in a Lamaze breathing class.
An early synopsis states that “their double lives collide in unexpected, hilarious and dangerous ways, forcing the two men to reluctantly become confidants and partners on the path to fatherhood.”
Netflix lines up big names behind spy comedy
Netflix has apparently assembled a powerhouse team to bring the comedy to life. Reports suggest that Shawn Levy’s 21 Laps and Ryan Reynolds’ Maximum Effort will produce the film, while McG, known for films like “Charlie’s Angels” and “This Means War,” is set to direct.
The screenplay is written by Adam and Aaron Nee, whose credits include “Masters of the Universe” and “The Lost City,” alongside Jonathan Tropper, known for “The Adam Project” and “Banshee.”
In addition to starring in the film, Hart is also set to produce through his HartBeat banner.
Henry Cavill and Kevin Hart already have major Netflix ties
Cavill and Hart are major draws for Netflix and are no strangers to the platform’s formula for viral hits. The “Man of Steel” actor previously led the fantasy film “The Witcher” and also played Sherlock Holmes in the “Enola Holmes” franchise alongside Millie Bobby Brown.
Interestingly, Cavill recently admitted to Heat magazine that although he now feels “too old” to play James Bond, he would jump at the chance to play a Bond villain. This Netflix project will allow him to flex his spy muscles, but with a comedic twist instead.
Hart, meanwhile, has become a regular presence in Netflix’s feature film division. He has led several major streaming projects, including the action film “Lift,” “The Man From Toronto,” “Me Time” and the drama “Fatherhood.”
Kevin Hart faces heat after controversial roast joke
Last month, Hart faced intense backlash over what many viewers considered offensive jokes made during his Netflix special, “The Roast of Kevin Hart.”
As is typical at roasts, several celebrities and comedians, including Tom Brady, Draymond Green, Teyana Taylor, Lizzo and others, took turns throwing digs at the actor.
However, the series attracted criticism from fans after Tony Hinchcliffe made a joke referencing George Floyd, who was killed by police in 2020.
“The black community is so proud of you,” Hinchcliffe said of Hart, according to The Hollywood Reporter. “Right now, George Floyd is looking at all of us, laughing so hard he can’t breathe.”
Kevin Hart defends roast format after backlash
During an appearance on “The Breakfast Club” later that month, Hart admitted that the joke left a sour taste in the audience’s mouth, but defended himself by explaining that such moments are common in roasts.
“Yes, the George Floyd joke, it was not a tasteful joke for our culture, for our audience, but for our audience watching the roast, if you watch the roast, you understand why they’re doing it. You understand why racial humor is on the table,” he said.
Hart was then asked if he thought the joke went “too far”, to which he replied: “It’s Tony Hinchcliffe. I don’t expect less. I don’t expect more.”
“Tony Hinchcliffe probably had the best set, or one of the best sets,” he said. ” Rock [Davidson] there was also a great set. Pete contained a Charlie Kirk joke. Like, would I tell these jokes? No, but do I understand why we tell them that? Yes. I don’t look at Pete as crazy. I’m not looking at Tony… That’s what I know you’re going to do. I know your style of comedy.
