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

It’s official — Varnell Hill is back, and this time, he’s taking center stage. BET+ has ordered a spinoff series based on the beloved character from the ‘90s sitcom Martin, with Tommy Davidson reprising his role more than 30 years after the character first appeared.

The new series, titled Varnell Hill, dives behind the scenes of the fictional Varnell Hill Show, a late-night talk show that Davidson’s character hosted in the original series. But this time, it’s not just about flashy interviews and cheesy catchphrases. The show will be a workplace comedy that pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to keep a talk show alive — and what it means to stay relevant in an industry that doesn’t stop changing.

According to BET+, the series will explore “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.” Expect satire, fourth-wall breaks, cutaway gags, and a whole lot of behind-the-scenes chaos.

The project comes from the original minds behind Martin. Martin Lawrence returns as co-creator and executive producer alongside longtime collaborator Bentley Kyle Evans, who also writes, directs, and serves as showrunner. Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, Andy Horne, Stacy Lyles, Robert Lawrence, and Rae Proctor will also executive produce, with Rose Catherine Pinkney and Jason Harvey repping BET+ on the project.

It’s not yet confirmed if Lawrence will make an appearance on screen, but the series promises fresh new characters and celebrity guest cameos. And for fans who’ve been waiting for this moment? Davidson has a message: “Did you miss me? Well, now you don’t have to!”

The return of Varnell Hill brings with it more than just nostalgia. It’s a shot at fresh relevance for a character who was always just a little ahead of his time — and a smart, satirical take on the madness of modern media.