‘Martin’ Spinoff ‘Varnell Hill’ Starring Tommy Davidson Ordered at BET+

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Finally, fans are getting more Martin. Sort of.

BET has given the go-ahead for the workplace comedy series titled “Varnell Hill,” which is inspired by Tommy Davidson‘s character from “Martin.” Davidson will be returning to play the role once more. This is a direct order for the series, so you could think of his two-episode stint on “Martin” in 1993 as an extended audition or pilot episode.

Martin Lawrence, famously known for his role in “Martin,” is set to co-create and serve as executive producer for the new series titled “Varnell Hill.” Bentley Evans will join him as the other co-creator, taking on the roles of showrunner and executive producer. As of now, it’s uncertain whether Lawrence will reprise his character Martin Payne in this production. The characters in question are not particularly friendly.

Varnell Hill will work backstage for the long-standing late-night talk show, “The Varnell Hill Show.” This is a show that dates back to 1993, when he had an on-camera physical altercation with Payne during filming. Since then, Varnell Hill’s involvement in the “Martin” world came to an end.

The new series delves into Varnell’s struggle to stay current within a continually changing field, depicting the complex power structures among network executives, investors, and creative personnel involved in production. By combining satire, humor, brief interludes, and breaking the fourth wall, the show aims to captivate viewers with its unique and modern approach.

Production has not yet begun and we do not yet have a premiere date.

As a dedicated fan, I’m thrilled to share that alongside me, Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, Andy Horne, Stacy Lyles, Robert Lawrence, and Rae Proctor will all be taking on the role of executive producers for the upcoming series, Varnell Hill. Rose Catherine Pinkney and Jason Harvey will join us in this exciting endeavor, serving as executive producers for BET+.

Davidson expressed his delight in a statement, saying he’s thrilled to finally be joining the innovative project led by Martin Lawrence, a venture they’ve both been waiting for over three decades. Fans have long asked for this, and now it’s set to premiere on BET+!

Originally, “Martin” on Fox featured Martin alongside Tisha Campbell, Tichina Arnold, Thomas Mikal Ford, and Carl Anthony Payne. Sadly, Thomas (Tommy) Mikal Ford passed away in 2016; however, the other cast members reunited for a special 90-minute show on BET+ in 2002. More recently, Lawrence, Campbell, Arnold, and Payne came together to present at the Emmy Awards in 2024.

Last summer, Lawrence and Will Smith had a hit with Bad Boys: Ride or Die.

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2025-04-16 00:55