Kevin Hart: Accident ‘changed my world’ forever

Kevin Hart says his “world was changed forever” after a car accident left him with major injuries earlier this year.

The comedian and actor was travelling as a passenger in a 1970 Plymouth Barracuda when it crashed down an embankment above Malibu in the early hours of 1 September.

Hart has now spoken out for the first time since undergoing surgery on his back, offering a sobering word of warning to his fans.

“Basically you realise you’re not in control. No matter how much you think you’re in control, you’re not in control. And at the end of the day it can all be over.”

The driver of the car, Jared Black, 28, and his fiancee Rebecca Broxterman, 31, were also seriously injured in the crash.

The accident was caused by Black’s recklessness, according to a California Highway report.

In a short video shared on social media, Hart shows his intensive rehabilitation and recovery in the two months since the crash.

In one part, the 40-year-old can be seen wearing a hospital gown and oxygen mask, while being helped to his feet by two nurses.

The video also shows Hart undergoing physical therapy, and having oil applied to scars.

Describing the accident a “message from God”, the Jumanji star explains: “Life is funny, because some of the craziest things that happen to you end up being the things that you needed most.

“In this case I feel that God told me to sit down. When you’re moving too fast and doing too much, sometimes you can’t see the things you’re meant to see.”

He says it has given him a whole new perspective on life.

“After my accident I see things differently… My appreciation for life is through the roof.

“I’m thankful for my family, my friends, for the people who simply ride with me and have been with me, because you stood by me. My fans – thank you for all of your love and support.”

He goes on give the advice: “Don’t take today for granted, because today’s not promised.”

We also see Hart talking to a team of doctors, who tell him it will take around one year for him to fully recover.

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Hart adds: “I’m not in a rush. I’m thankful for simply still being here.”

He explains that he sees his recovery as “the road to being a bigger and better version of me”, going on to say he’s “looking forward to an amazing 2020”.

Hart has been limiting his professional commitments but expects to be working again next year.

His next appearance is in Jumanji: The Next Level, which was completed before the crash and is due for release in December.

(c) Sky News 2019: Kevin Hart: Accident ‘changed my world’ forever