Martin Lawrence and the cast of his iconic comedy series Martin are set to reunite 30 years later as part of a BET+ reunion special hosted by comedian Affion Crocket. Taping will take place on February 20, and the special will air later this year.
Announced participants include Tisha Campbell, Tichina Arnold, and Carl Anthony Payne II. Thomas Mikal Ford, who played Martin’s best friend Tommy in the series, passed away in 2016 at the age of 52.
“To be able to sit here 30 years later with this amazing cast that has had such an impact on pop culture is truly a blessing,” Lawrence said. “I am always humbled that the fans still want more of the show and its characters. I am looking forward to the reunion special.”
BET+ also teases that there will be “surprise guests” appearances from some of the show's most memorable guest stars. Throughout the Fox series’ five-season run from 1992-1997, the show featured appearances by Tracy Morgan, Kim Coles, Tommy Davidson, Jackie Chan, Chris Rock, Snoop Dogg, Billy Dee Williams, and Mr. T, among others.
The special will include interviews with the cast, original directors, musical performances, and behind-the-scenes commentary on the importance and impact of the show.
“Martin is one of the most beloved sitcoms in our community, both because it is hugely entertaining and because it played a pivotal role in changing the narrative of Black voices in entertainment and in culture through the portrayal of young, ambitious Black leads and healthy Black relationships,” said Scott Mills, CEO of BET. “Decades later, that representation is still just as important, which is why we’re so excited to honor a series that put Black culture front and center on our platform that embraces Black culture every day.”
Make sure to check out BET’s Special 30 Year Reunion of Martin.