Dwayne Johnson has not given up on bringing Neil Simon’s ‘The Odd Couple’ to Broadway with Kevin Hart. The project, first revealed by Deadline in July 2026, is paused—not dead. Johnson told People he is “not letting that dream go,” expressing genuine disappointment that Hart’s schedule derailed their initial plans.
The original concept: Johnson as sloppy Oscar Madison, Hart as fastidious Felix Ungar. It is comedy gold on paper. The contrast is extreme—Johnson’s 6-foot-5, 260-pound frame versus Hart’s 5-foot-4, high-energy delivery. Their real-life friendship mirrors the Oscar-Felix dynamic. Johnson is the chaotic force; Hart, the meticulous planner.
Why did it fall through? Hart’s commitments. The comedian has a packed film slate and an ongoing stand-up tour. AV Club reported Johnson sounded “genuinely bummed” about the delay. Hart has not publicly commented on the project, but his previous Broadway experience is limited. He performed a one-man show on Broadway in 2017, but a two-person play is a different beast. Fan reaction online: disappointment mixed with hope.
Johnson’s Broadway Obsession
Johnson’s desire to debut on Broadway is not new. In an exclusive interview with People, he revealed long-held plans. He joked about “snatching his waist a little bit”—a reference to the physical demands of live theater. The line shows vulnerability. It is a departure from his action-hero persona.
This project fits into his post-wrestling, post-Hollywood evolution. Johnson has moved from WWE champion to box-office draw to producer. A Broadway debut would add a new layer to his legacy. He has said the stage is “the ultimate test for any performer.”
The Perfect Casting
Johnson and Hart have proven chemistry. Their work in ‘Central Intelligence’ (2016) and ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ (2017) shows they can carry a two-person dynamic. Social media buzz highlights their real-life friendship as the foundation for the play’s tension.
The casting logic is simple: Johnson brings physical comedy, Hart brings rapid-fire wit. Neil Simon’s play thrives on these contrasts. A 2020 revival starring Matthew Broderick and Nathan Lane grossed $12 million in its first month. Johnson and Hart could exceed that.
| Element | Johnson as Oscar | Hart as Felix |
|---|---|---|
| Physicality | Messy, imposing | Tidy, manic |
| Comedy style | Slapstick, deadpan | Verbal, high-energy |
| Real-life parallel | Chaotic friend | Meticulous planner |
What Would It Take?
The timeline is uncertain. Johnson’s schedule includes multiple film projects and WWE commitments. Hart’s tour dates extend through 2028. Broadway theater availability is tight. Producer interest is high, but the Neil Simon estate must approve any revival.
Johnson has said he is “not letting that dream go.” A 2027 or 2028 limited engagement is plausible. The window is narrow.
Alternative Scenarios
If Hart remains unavailable, backup options exist. Jack Black, John Cena, or Ryan Reynolds could step in. Nathan Lane, who played Oscar in the 2020 revival, is another possibility. But Johnson’s heart is set on Hart. The unique chemistry they bring is irreplaceable.
Why This Matters
Hollywood stars crossing over to Broadway is a growing trend. Daniel Radcliffe, Scarlett Johansson, and Andrew Garfield have all done it. Johnson’s attempt continues that pattern. The revival of classic comedies for modern audiences is also notable. Neil Simon’s work, once a staple, has seen a resurgence.
But the cultural significance is deeper. Johnson and Hart are two Black mega-stars headlining a Broadway classic. That sends a message. It also represents Johnson’s personal growth—from action hero to serious actor willing to take risks.
The Final Curtain Call
The plan is paused, not dead. Johnson’s determination is clear. Hart’s potential availability in a few years keeps the door open. Broadway’s loss is Hollywood’s gain for now, but the stage is waiting. The buzz is real.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Why did Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart’s Broadway ‘Odd Couple’ project get paused?
- A: The project was paused due to Kevin Hart’s packed schedule, including film commitments and an ongoing stand-up tour, according to reports.
- Q: Has Dwayne Johnson given up on the Broadway dream with Kevin Hart?
- A: No, Johnson told People he is ‘not letting that dream go’ and remains committed to making the project happen in the future.
- Q: What roles would Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart play in ‘The Odd Couple’?
- A: Johnson would play the sloppy Oscar Madison, while Hart would portray the fastidious Felix Ungar, a comedic contrast to their real-life friendship.
Extended Reading
Deadline’s original report confirmed Johnson’s efforts to revive ‘The Odd Couple’ with Hart. People’s exclusive interview captured Johnson’s emotional investment. AV Club’s coverage highlighted the disappointment in Hart’s unavailability. All three sources confirm the project remains a live possibility.