The 1990s sitcom Martin is officially expanding with a spinoff. BET+ has today given a series order to the original comedy series Varnell Hill featuring Tommy Davidson reprising his character in the titular role. The first season will produce eight episodes.
The workplace comedy is set behind the scenes of the long-running late-night talk show, The Varnell Hill Show. Delving into the chaotic world of television production, the series explores Varnell's (Davidson) 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.
Bentley Evans wrote the pilot and will also direct and serve as showrunner on the first season. He will executive produce with Martin Lawrence, Jesse Collins, Stacy Lyles, Robert Lawrence, Rae Proctor, Dionne Harmon and Andy Horne. Bentley Evans Productions, Jesse Collins Entertainment and Runteldat Entertainment will produce.
"Did you miss me?" said Davidson. "Well, now you don't have to! I'm excited and honored to be a part of such a creative project with the brilliant mind of Martin Lawrence, over 30 years in the making. Fans have requested it, and now it's coming to BET+."