Paramount+ has released the first official look at The Varnell Hill Show, a new comedy series centered on Tommy Davidson’s fan-favorite Martin character, Varnell Hill. The series also reunites Davidson with Martin Lawrence, who returns as Martin Payne in a special guest appearance.
Executive produced by Lawrence, the series follows Varnell as he navigates the pressures of hosting a long-running late-night talk show while trying to stay relevant in today’s entertainment industry. As television evolves, Varnell finds himself battling network executives pushing for change, managing an unpredictable writers’ room, handling high-profile celebrity guests, and confronting his own oversized personality.
The ensemble cast includes Kym Whitley, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Nick Cafero, Emmanuel Hudson, and Chris Williams. The show will also feature guest appearances from Ms. Pat, Deon Cole, Omarion, Mike Epps, and Damon Wayans.
Originally introduced during Martin‘s second season in 1993, Varnell Hill quickly became one of the sitcom’s most memorable recurring characters. More than three decades later, the outspoken television personality is stepping into the spotlight with a series of his own, bringing a behind-the-scenes look at the fast-paced and often chaotic world of late-night television.