Copyright Variety
Tubi, Fox Corp.‘s ad-supported streaming service, has set its first exclusive creator content slate in a deal with Kevin Hart’s multiplatform entertainment company Hartbeat. Under an expanded partnership with Hartbeat, Tubi will debut four original, creator-driven films in 2026, including one led by multihyphenate digital creator Kinigra Deon (pictured above) and another by DC Young Fly, Chico Bean and Karlous Miller of “The 85 South Show” podcast. The deal kicks off with “Sundown,” a supernatural thriller film written, directed and starring Kinigra Deon. The story follows a group of Black college friends who take a wrong turn into a racially hostile town where local myths turn terrifyingly real. The second title is film “85 South: Dead End,” featuring the podcast’s trio in a satirical horror-comedy about a Southern road trip gone off the rails in a mysteriously offbeat town where no one ever leaves. Two additional films will be announced at a later date. The partnership was brokered by Jeff Clanagan, president and chief distribution officer of Hartbeat, and Sam Harowitz, Tubi’s SVP of content acquisitions and partnerships. It marks an extension of the companies’ ongoing relationship, which previously brought a range of Hartbeat-produced TV series and films to the platform. In addition, Kinigra Deon is part of the first group of creators in the Tubi for Creators program, with her digital series like “Vampire Siblings” and “College Life” among the first creator‑led titles added to Tubi’s content collection. “This first slate of exclusive titles under Tubi for Creators is an exciting milestone, and partnering with Hartbeat ensures we’re working with top-tier talent and voices that truly reflect our diverse audience,” said Rich Bloom, GM of creator programs and EVP of business development at Tubi. “We’re proud to create a pathway for creators to break into Hollywood while staying true to their authentic voice.” Clanagan said: “Hartbeat has always been about championing the creators who shape culture and move audiences. Through this partnership with Tubi, we’re excited to give talent like Kinigra Deon, DC Young Fly, Chico Bean and Karlous Miller the space to bring their authentic voices — and their audiences — to a global streaming platform that celebrates creator-driven storytelling, delivering smart, funny, and fresh films that reflect the culture.” Tubi, which Fox acquired in 2020, says it has more than 100 million active monthly viewers. Founded in 2009, Hartbeat finances, develops and produces content for all platforms. its flagship consumer brand, the LOL! Network, reaches audiences across social media, audio and over-the-top platforms.
