Kevin Hart is one of the most celebrated comedians and actors in the world, known for his quick wit, relatable humor, and high-energy performances. However, in 2019, his thriving career was momentarily halted due to a terrifying and near-fatal car crash. The Kevin Hart accident not only shocked fans around the world but also opened up conversations about recovery, resilience, and the fragility of life—even for the strongest among us.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Kevin Hart accident, how it happened, the aftermath, his path to recovery, how it affected his career, and what lessons he has shared from the experience.
The Kevin Hart Accident: What Happened?
On September 1, 2019, Kevin Hart was involved in a serious car accident on Mulholland Highway in Calabasas, California. The accident occurred around 12:45 a.m. when Hart was a passenger in his 1970 Plymouth Barracuda, a classic muscle car he had recently purchased as a birthday gift to himself.
The car was being driven by his friend, Jared Black, with Jared’s fiancée, Rebecca Broxterman, in the back seat. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) report, the car veered off the road and crashed through a wooden fence, rolling down an embankment.
Importantly, the report also stated that no one in the car was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The cause was primarily attributed to reckless acceleration on a road known for its winding curves.
The Severity of Kevin Hart’s Injuries
Of all the passengers, Kevin Hart sustained the most severe injuries. He suffered three major spinal fractures, which required immediate medical attention and surgery. The injuries included:
- A fracture in the thoracic spine
- Two fractures in the lumbar spine
These kinds of injuries are not just painful—they can be life-altering. In some cases, spinal injuries at these levels can lead to paralysis or long-term mobility issues. Fortunately, Kevin Hart was rushed to the Northridge Hospital Medical Center and then transferred to a specialized rehabilitation facility where he underwent spinal fusion surgery.
Doctors performed emergency back surgery, and Hart remained hospitalized for over a week. His physical therapy journey began almost immediately, as he worked hard to regain mobility and strength.
Kevin Hart’s Road to Recovery
In the weeks following the accident, Kevin Hart remained largely out of the public eye. Speculation about the seriousness of his condition circulated in the media, but Hart himself didn’t make a public statement until nearly two months later.
In October 2019, Hart released an emotional Instagram video titled “#BStrong,” giving fans a glimpse into his recovery journey. The video showed him learning to walk again, going through painful physical therapy sessions, and sharing his newfound outlook on life.
He described the experience as “a wake-up call” and noted that the accident helped him refocus on what truly matters: family, health, and gratitude.
“You know, when God talks, you’ve got to listen,” Hart said. “I honestly feel like God basically told me to sit down. When you’re moving too fast and doing too much, sometimes you can’t see the things that you’re meant to see.”
Career Impact of the Kevin Hart Accident
Before the accident, Kevin Hart was one of the busiest entertainers in Hollywood, involved in a range of projects from stand-up tours to blockbuster movies like Jumanji and Ride Along. At the time of the Kevin Hart accident, he was also scheduled to promote the film Jumanji: The Next Level.
Due to his injuries, he had to pull out of several public appearances and delay some of his filming schedules. However, Hart showed his trademark resilience and determination by returning to work just ten weeks after the accident.
While he was still recovering, Hart did limited press and appearances, supported by a back brace and controlled movements. His return was seen not only as a physical achievement but also as a symbol of mental toughness.
Legal and Public Reactions
After the Kevin Hart accident, several questions arose about the safety features of classic cars, which typically lack modern seat belts and airbags. In Hart’s Barracuda, none of the passengers were wearing seat belts, according to the CHP report.
This incident reignited debates in California and beyond about whether owners of classic cars should be required to retrofit them with modern safety features.
In addition, Kevin Hart reportedly faced potential legal risks, although he was not driving the vehicle. Jared Black and Rebecca Broxterman did not file any lawsuits against Hart, but the event did serve as a reminder of the potential liabilities celebrities face even when they are not directly responsible for an incident.
Psychological Toll and Mindset Shift
Beyond the physical recovery, Kevin Hart has been very candid about the psychological toll the accident had on him. In interviews following his recovery, he shared how the accident forced him to take a step back from his workaholic lifestyle and spend more time with his family.
He began prioritizing mindfulness, emotional health, and spiritual growth, reading more books and even diving into meditation. Hart mentioned that the experience made him more present and gave him a deeper appreciation for life.
“You learn things about yourself that you never knew. At the end of the day, you’re not in control,” Hart said in an interview with Men’s Health. “No matter how much you think you’re in control, you’re not.”
Kevin Hart Today: Life After the Accident
As of 2025, Kevin Hart has fully resumed his career. He’s released several projects, including:
- “Fatherhood” (2021) – A Netflix drama that showed a more serious side of Hart.
- “True Story” (2021) – A limited series where Hart played a fictionalized version of himself.
- Stand-up specials and interviews where he touches on themes of mortality and purpose.
Hart also created a documentary series titled “Don’t Fk This Up”**, which includes a section focusing on the Kevin Hart accident and its aftermath. The series gives fans an unfiltered view of his life and growth.
In addition to entertainment, Hart has invested in businesses, fitness ventures, and podcasts, always emphasizing resilience, health, and gratitude.
Conclusion
The Kevin Hart accident was more than just a headline-grabbing event. It was a moment of transformation that changed the trajectory of one of the world’s most dynamic entertainers. Hart’s journey from the edge of tragedy to a renewed, more grounded life offers inspiration not only to fans but to anyone facing hardship.
Rather than letting the accident define him, Kevin Hart used it as an opportunity to reevaluate his life and emerge stronger than ever. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest moments, with the right mindset and support, recovery and growth are possible.
FAQs About the Kevin Hart Accident
1. When did the Kevin Hart accident happen?
The Kevin Hart accident occurred on September 1, 2019, in Calabasas, California, when his car veered off the road.
2. What kind of car was Kevin Hart driving?
Kevin Hart was a passenger in a 1970 Plymouth Barracuda, a vintage muscle car he had just received for his birthday.
3. Was Kevin Hart the driver during the accident?
No, Kevin Hart was not driving. The car was being driven by Jared Black, a close friend of Hart.
4. What injuries did Kevin Hart sustain in the accident?
He suffered three spinal fractures, requiring spinal fusion surgery and months of physical rehabilitation.
5. How long did it take Kevin Hart to recover?
Kevin Hart began physical therapy almost immediately and made a public return within 10 weeks, but full recovery took several months.
6. Did Kevin Hart sue anyone or face lawsuits?
No, there were no public lawsuits filed by or against Kevin Hart as a result of the accident.
7. How has the accident changed Kevin Hart’s life?
Hart has publicly stated that the accident helped him reprioritize his life, focusing more on family, mental health, and spiritual growth.
8. Is Kevin Hart still acting and performing?
Yes, Kevin Hart has fully resumed his career, starring in films, producing content, and touring with new stand-up material.
9. Was alcohol involved in the accident?
No, the California Highway Patrol confirmed that alcohol or drugs were not involved in the accident.
10. What is Kevin Hart’s message to fans after the accident?
Hart encourages everyone to value life, appreciate family, and never take health for granted.
Read Also: Kevin Hart Accident
