Kevin Hart credits Montreal’s Just For Laughs for launching his career

TORONTO — “This is big,” Kevin Hart declared. “This moment is big.”

The diminutive comedian — who shot to fame with roles in films like Ride Along, The Wedding Ringer and Get Hard — is inside Montreal’s Hyatt Regency hotel talking about being back at the Just For Laughs festival.

Hart debuted at JFL’s New Faces showcase in 2001 — a gig he credits with launching his career.

“I believe that everything comes full circle,” Hart said last Friday, only hours before he performed stand-up for more than 13,000 fans at the Bell Centre.

“It all started for me here at the Just For Laughs festival.”

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It’s not hyperbole. Hart, now 36, said the people who represent him and surround him today came into the picture after his shows in Montreal.

“It all literally started here at this festival,” he said. “I’m able to do what I’m doing because you guys put me in position to win.”

Hart was honoured at this year’s JFL with the Comedy Person of the Year Award, presented by one of his mentors, Dave Chappelle.

Hart seemed genuinely grateful for the recognition.

“Everything happens for a reason so thank you,” he said. “Just For Laughs, I am a friend forever. I will always come back because I don’t forget.”