Comedian Chris Rock is facing criticism for his remarks about Kevin Hart’s past and present marriages during a Netflix comedy special.

The Kennedy Center recently celebrated Kevin Hart’s 25-year career in comedy by awarding him the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The event, held in March, has now been released as a Netflix special featuring Jerry Seinfeld, Tiffany Haddish, Jimmy Fallon, Nick Cannon, Dave Chappelle, and Chris Rock.

When Chris Rock took the stage, spirits were high, but what began as a heartwarming moment may have landed him in hot water. Rock initially commented on Kevin Hart’s radiant smile, saying,

“Look at him. Look at that smile. Got that second wife happiness.”

The crowd erupted into laughter as the camera panned to a close-up shot of Kevin with his two children, Heaven and Hendrix Hart, whom he shares with his ex-wife Torrei Hart.

Rock continued,

“Ain’t nothing like that second wife happiness. ‘It’s like we didn’t struggle at all.’”

Hart’s current wife, Eniko Hart, smiled with amusement as she held their youngest child, Kaori Hart.

Chris Rock told a few more jokes and wrapped up his set by saying,

“Enjoy your new wife and kids, you bastard.”

A clip of Rock’s segment from the special was posted on social media, sparking criticism from many users who took issue with him bringing up Hart’s family dynamics while they were sitting in the audience.

One Instagram user commented,

“His older kids didn’t appreciate that dig at their mom. That wasn’t cool and for Kevin to laugh like that in front of them was wild.”

Another Instagram user wrote,

“Chris better leave them wife jokes alone.”

See more reactions below:

Chris Rock may have been alluding to Kevin Hart’s contentious past with his ex-wife, Torrei Hart.

Kevin and Torrei Hart began dating during their time at a Philadelphia community college, where their mutual passion for comedy bonded them. They later moved to Los Angeles to pursue careers in entertainment, and after eight months of dating, they became engaged.

The couple tied the knot in 2003, and in 2005, they welcomed their first child, Heaven Leigh Hart. Three years later, Torrei gave birth to their son, Hendrix Hart.

After eight years and Kevin’s career taking off, he and Torrei Hart separated. A year later, their divorce was finalized in 2011. While they cited irreconcilable differences, there were rumors that Torrei’s career struggles contributed. Torrei later claimed Kevin cheated on her in 2009, allegedly with his current wife, Eniko Hart.

This wouldn’t be the first time Chris Rock mentioned spouses on stage. During the 2022 Oscars ceremony, Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair, referencing G.I. Jane. This led to Will Smith, who was in the audience, walking up to the stage and slapping Chris Rock. Will Smith was subsequently banned from the award ceremony for 10 years.

Source: thejasminebrand.com