https://blackgirlnerds.com/what-we-know-so-far-about-the-martin-spinoff-series-varnell-hill/

Nearly three decades after Martin Lawrence’s hit sitcom Martin left the airwaves, one of its most unforgettable guest stars is stepping into the spotlight. BET+ has officially greenlit Varnell Hill, a spinoff centered on Tommy Davidson’s hilariously flamboyant talk show host who first appeared in the ’90s classic. The new workplace comedy will take viewers behind the curtain of The Varnell Hill Show, blending celebrity cameos, industry satire, and the over-the-top charm that made Davidson’s character a fan favorite.

Now, let’s dive into everything we know so far about Varnell Hill, the upcoming Martin spinoff heading to BET+:

The show has an 8-episode series order

Greenlit by BET+, the workplace comedy is set behind the scenes of the fictional late-night talk show, The Varnell Hill Show, exploring the chaotic world of television production. There will be a lively mix of satire, cutaways, fourth-wall breaks, and celebrity cameos, blending humor with sharp industry satire.

The Named Cast and Creative Team

Tommy Davidson returns as the flamboyant Varnell Hill—his original two-episode stint on Martin left a lasting cultural impact. Deadline confirmed Comedy veteran Kym Whitley has been cast as a series regular opposite Davidson.

Martin Lawrence (co-creator of Martin) will executive produce the spinoff and Bentley Kyle Evans, longtime collaborator and original Martin showrunner, will write, direct the pilot, and serve as showrunner and executive producer. Jesse Collins joins as executive producer, with additional EP credits including Dionne Harmon, Andy Horne, Stacy Lyles, Robert Lawrence, and Rae Proctor. Deadline has also confirmed Lawrence is poised to reprise his Martin Payne role in multiple episodes of the series, which has started production in Los Angeles.

The Nostalgia Factor

The spinoff was announced on the 35th anniversary of In Living Color — highlighting Tommy Davidson’s roots and the show’s nostalgic pull. It also follows a recent Martin reunion, including original cast members appearing together at the Emmys, demonstrating renewed interest in the franchise.

Release Date Information

No release date has been announced. And no trailers or official clips are available at this time.

Original Cast Returning?

Aside from Lawrence, it’s unclear if any Martin alums (like Tisha Campbell, Tichina Arnold, or Carl Anthony Payne II) will appear, though celebrity cameos are promised.

Varnell Hill will be a BET+ exclusive. Meanwhile, the original Martin series is available to stream on Peacock, Netflix, and BET+

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