Forbes magazine put out its list of the world's highest-paid comedians this week, and in what could be described as an industry coup, Kevin Hart displaces Jerry Seinfeld to claim the #1 spot atop the field. With total earnings amounting to $87.5 million between June of 2015 and June 2016, Hart didn't simply eclipse Seinfeld, he doubled the $43.5 million the legendary comedian made.

Forbes calculates what performers bring in through data collected from agents, managers, lawyers, industry insiders, and such databases as IMDB, Pollster, and Box Office Mojo. Their place on the list is determined by the estimate calculated from records of touring, films, TV specials, DVD sales, paid appearances, and endorsements. Hart's biggest drawing comes from his stadium tours, as he has traveled the circuit at a remarkable pace, playing over 100 shows that each gross over $1 million. He has also done well in Hollywood, appearing in the blockbusters Ride Along II, Central Intelligence, and Secret Life of Pets. His endorsements include Hyundai, Foot Locker an H&M.

The significance of what Hart has accomplished can be measured by looking at Seinfeld's reign, which ran for 10 years strong, over which time he accumulated over $900 million. With 2006 having been the year Forbes began awarding highest-paid honors to comedians, until now, Seinfeld has in fact been the only #1 comedian the list has ever had.

Source: forbes.com