Despite sharing a surname, Joe and Kevin Hart originate from distinct backgrounds. However, when they met in Manchester on Friday night, they greeted each other as if they were old friends.
The Burnley goalkeeper, who remains a local celebrity because of his time with Manchester City, was spotted arriving at popular burger place Archie’s as the Hollywood star left with his entourage.
With a full 13 inches of height separating the two, it certainly made for an unusual image as the two enjoyed an embrace on Oxford Road before accepting selfie requests from admirers in the crowd.
Joe Hart (right) greets Kevin Hart outside the Archies burger joint in Manchester on Friday.
Kevin and Joe met two years ago at the Manchester City training complex as part of a promotional tour for the film Ride Along 2.He took three penalties against the 6ft 4in shot-stopper but failed to convert two of them.
Speaking at the time, Kevin, who was thought to support Manchester United, hinted that he was transferring allegiances to the blue side of the city.
He stated, “The difference is that Manchester City has extended a red-carpet invitation to us.” I didn’t offer to go there now that I’m familiar with them, but they said we’d love for you to come and see. Manchester United cannot be offended because you have not invited us.
The Hollywood celebrity and comedian was in the local area, appearing at the Manchester Arena
‘We don’t know where to go; I can’t just walk up to Manchester United and bang on the door and say let me in, because I’d get jailed.’
Kevin performed at Manchester Arena as part of his irresponsible tour and was caught wearing his earpiece while grabbing a quick bite to eat.
He’ll travel to London on Saturday for the first of three sold-out nights at The O2.
Joe, meanwhile, will be on display at Turf Moor on Sunday afternoon when his Burnley team faces Manchester United, a team he previously considered his greatest opponent when at City.