Almost three decades have passed since Martin faded from our TV screens, but the beloved sitcom universe created by Martin Lawrence is staging an unexpected comeback. BET+ made a groundbreaking announcement on Tuesday, revealing that it has greenlit a spinoff titled Varnell Hill, centered around the iconic character portrayed by Tommy Davidson. Davidson's memorable two-episode stint in the second season of Martin has laid the groundwork for this exciting new venture.
Positioned as a workplace comedy that unfolds behind the scenes of a long-standing late-night talk show, Varnell Hill delves into the protagonist's relentless pursuit of relevance in a rapidly evolving industry. The series also unpacks the intricate corporate dynamics involving network executives, business stakeholders, and creative teams who bring the show to life. With its clever blend of satire, humor, unexpected cutaways, and playful fourth-wall breaks, the spinoff promises to captivate audiences with a fresh, innovative narrative.
Lawrence, who co-created Varnell Hill with Bentley Kyle Evans, will serve as an executive producer. Evans will wear multiple hats, functioning as the showrunner, writer, director, and executive producer. Davidson, expressing his excitement through an Instagram post featuring a clip of him as Varnell from Martin, stated, "Did you miss me? Well, your wait is over! I'm thrilled and honored to be part of this creative endeavor, nurtured by Martin Lawrence's brilliant mind over the past 30 years. Fans have been requesting it, and now it's arriving on BET+!"
While it remains uncertain whether Lawrence will reprise his role as Varnell's rival, Martin Payne, the new show promises a diverse array of fresh characters and thrilling cameos from familiar faces. The news of the spinoff arrives a little over a year after Martin's castmates—Lawrence, Tisha Campbell, Tichina Arnold, and Carl Anthony Payne II—reunited to present an award at the Emmys.
Martin, which aired for five seasons from 1992 to 1997, followed the life of a snarky radio host (Lawrence) whose fiery opinions often led to comical troubles with his girlfriend Gina (Campbell) and their chaotic circle of friends.
