Mike Epps Weighs in on Kevin Hart’s Pacers Entertainment Role: “He Should Have Called Me”

In a recent interview, Indianapolis native and comedian Mike Epps shared his candid thoughts on Kevin Hart’s newly established role as the cultural curator for the Indiana Pacers’ entertainment initiatives. The collaboration, which sees Hart’s Hartbeat media company overseeing fan experiences and cultural events surrounding the Pacers, has drawn attention within the entertainment industry, and Epps, who has long been involved in Indianapolis’s entertainment scene, is not shy about voicing his disappointment.

A Missed Opportunity for Collaboration?

The partnership between Kevin Hart and the Pacers comes at an exciting time for the franchise, with a focus on incorporating cultural and entertainment experiences into their game-day offerings. Hart’s company is slated to play a key role in curating events during the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, which will take place in Indianapolis. Hartbeat’s involvement will bring music, comedy, and other forms of entertainment to the city, showcasing Hart’s star power and his influence within the entertainment industry.

However, Epps, who is well-known for his comedic career and his deep-rooted connection to Indianapolis, couldn’t help but express his disappointment over not being included in this partnership. “He should have called me,” Epps said, speaking about Hart’s decision to take the lead on the project without reaching out to him. Epps believes that he could have been a valuable asset to the team, especially given his long-standing ties to the city and his established presence in both comedy and entertainment.

A History of Competition and Collaboration

While Epps’s comments suggest a level of frustration, they also hint at a more complicated dynamic between the two comedians. Epps and Hart have had a history of professional rivalry, but also mutual respect, and their interactions over the years have been marked by both camaraderie and competition. Epps pointed out that many within the Pacers organization might not be aware of his past history with Hart, and might not understand the nuances of their relationship.

“It’s not like I don’t respect Kevin Hart,” Epps clarified. “I’ve worked with him in the past, but I’ve also reached out to him on more than one occasion. I was just on the phone with him the other day, telling him that that’s what we got to do — work together.”

Despite any perceived slight, Epps expressed a willingness to work alongside Hart in the future, acknowledging the importance of unity within the Black entertainment community. “There’s enough for everybody,” Epps said, highlighting his belief that collaboration, rather than competition, should be the primary focus within the industry.

The Complexities of Entertainment Industry Politics

Epps’s comments underscore the often complicated and politically charged nature of the entertainment industry. The decision by the Pacers to partner with Hart, a global superstar and well-established figure in the entertainment world, is a strategic move that aligns with the team’s broader efforts to tap into diverse audiences. However, for someone like Epps, who has been a fixture in the Indianapolis entertainment landscape for years, this move has the potential to feel exclusionary.

It’s also a reminder of the subtle politics that exist behind high-profile partnerships in the entertainment world. Professional relationships, hometown pride, and the complex dance of business dealings all come into play when decisions are made about who gets the spotlight and who doesn’t.

Looking Toward the Future

Epps is no stranger to being overlooked in Hollywood, and his comments may serve as a reflection of a broader desire for recognition and inclusion in projects that shape his hometown’s cultural landscape. Indianapolis, often considered an underdog in terms of entertainment, has long struggled with a lack of attention from big entertainment brands and celebrities. For Epps, it’s not just about personal recognition, but about making sure his city is represented on a larger stage. His voice is an attempt to make sure local talent isn’t overshadowed by outsiders, even when they come from similar backgrounds.

However, despite his frustrations, Epps remained hopeful for future collaboration. “I’ve always been about giving back to my community and creating opportunities for the next generation,” he said. “It’s about helping one another and making sure we all get our fair shot. There’s room for everyone, especially when you’re doing things for the right reasons.”

A Bigger Conversation

Epps’s comments offer more than just a personal grievance. They touch on broader themes about the importance of collaboration and recognition in the entertainment industry. As the industry continues to evolve, with more emphasis on branded partnerships and celebrity-driven projects, it’s important to remember that success doesn’t have to be a zero-sum game. Epps’s perspective reminds us that even in an industry dominated by high-profile personalities and big businesses, there is room for mutual respect and collaboration.

At the end of the day, Epps’s wish for recognition goes beyond his own career—it’s a call for greater unity and inclusivity in an industry that often feels more focused on competition than cooperation. In an ideal world, he believes, Hart and others in similar positions would reach out to those with local roots, valuing the contributions that native talent can bring to the table.

For now, Epps remains open to future collaborations with Hart, hoping that both comedians can find ways to work together for the greater good of Indianapolis’s entertainment scene. “We all got to eat,” Epps said. “And if we work together, we can make the city proud.”