Kevin Hart, Lionsgate to Launch Comedy Streaming Video Service

Lionsgate and comedian Kevin Hart will launch a comedy-themed streaming video service Aug. 3 featuring original scripted and reality fare.

The Laugh Out Loud service, which will launch for free on iOS and Android devices along with a $2.99 per month ad free option, will feature a slate of original scripted and unscripted comedy series, stand-up specials, licensed programming and live broadcasts, said company officials.

The service will also feature all seven seasons of the 1990s HBO comedy seriesDef Comedy Jam. Original series includeKevin Hart: Lyft Legend, a hidden camera series that will have its debut on Laugh Out Loud’s Facbook page prior to the launch of the streaming service.

Other shows includeBlack Geo, a satirical investigative series into the origins of black culture through sketch comedy; Dead House, a scripted sitcom from comedian Andrew Bachelor, aka King Bach, and follows a reality show pitting a human and four zombies in the same house, andCampus Law, a scripted sitcom based around three recent college graduates who decide to get jobs as security guards on their former campus.

For the full story go to Multichannel.com.

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.