15-04-2025
Martin Spinoff Starring Tommy Davidson as Talk Show Host Varnell Hill Gets BET+ Series Order
A year-and-change after Martin cast members Martin Lawrence, Tichina Arnold, Tisha Campbell and Carl Anthony Payne II winningly reunited at the Emmy Awards, BET+ has given a series order to a spinoff — albeit, one revolving around a one-off character from the 1990s Fox sitcom.
Tommy Davidson is set to reprise his November 1993 Martin role as Varnell Hill, a stand-up comic turned late-night talk show host who appeared in the Season 2 two-parter 'Hollywood Swinging.'
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'Did you miss me? Well, now you don't have to!' said Davidson in a statement. 'I'm excited and honored to be a part of such a creative project with the brilliant mind of Martin Lawrence, over 30 years in the making. Fans have requested it and now it's coming to BET+!'
Set behind the scenes of a long-running, late-night talk show, The Varnell Hill Show is described as a workplace comedy that delves into the chaotic world of television production. Co-created by Lawrence, who will serve as an executive producer, the series explores Varnell's journey to remain relevant in an ever-evolving industry and the corporate dynamics of network executives, business stakeholders and creative teams involved in the making of the show.
With a blend of satire, humor, cutaways and fourth-wall breaks, The Varnell Hill Show promises to 'engage audiences in a fresh and innovative way,' while showcasing a mix of new characters and celebrity guest cameos.
Lawrence is not confirmed to reprise his role as Martin Payne, but Deadline hears he likely will appear in multiple episodes.
Showrunner/director and fellow Martin EP Bentley Kyle Evans will also serve as an executive producer alongside Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, Andy Horne, Stacy Lyles, Robert Lawrence, Rae Proctor, Rose Catherine Pinkney and Jason Harvey.
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