Chris Rock to Direct Kevin Hart-Led Film ‘Coparenting’ for Universal

“Black-ish” writer Yamara Taylor will write the script based on an original idea from Rock

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Comedian Chris Rock is on board to direct an original comedy, “Coparenting,” with Kevin Hart attached to star.

The film is based on an original idea from Rock. “Black-ish” writer Yamara Taylor will pen the script about a stay at home dad raising the kids while his CEO wife serves as the family’s breadwinner. He finds himself in emotional turmoil when his wife kicks him to the curb, and they engage in a bitter divorce and custody battle.

Powerhouse producer Will Packer (“Night School,” “Girls Trip”) will produce the film for his company alongside Rock’s Chris Rock Enterprises. Universal Pictures is in negotiations to acquire the film.

The last time Rock directed a film was 2014’s “Top Five,” which pulled in $26 million at the box office worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo, on a $12 million production budget.

Packer’s “Night School,” which Hart also starred in along with Tiffany Haddish, had the highest opening weekend for a comedy since his last big project “Girls Trip.”

Hart and John Cheng will produce, with Cheng and Carli Haney overseeing via HartBeat Productions. James Lopez will also serve as a producer for Will Packer Productions. And executive vice president of production Kristin Lowe will oversee production on behalf of Universal.

Rock is represented by ICM Partners, Untitled and Morris Yorn Barnes Levine Krintzman Rubenstein Kohner & Gellman. Hart is represented by UTA, 3 Arts Entertainment and Schreck Rose Dapello & Adams. Taylor is represented by CAA and 3 Arts Entertainment.

Deadline first reported the news.

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