Martin Lawrence to Produce Drama Prequel 'Young Martin'
Martin Lawrence is spearheading a reboot of his beloved sitcom "Martin," with a dramatic twist.
According to Deadline, the veteran Hollywood star will co-produce the hour-long drama series “Young Martin” under his production company RunTelDat and Marvin Peart’s WonderHill Studios.
Set in modern-day Detroit, the story will follow a teenage Martin Payne, an energetic teenager driven by ambition, humor, and heartfelt concern for others who is "navigating the complexities of transitioning from youth to adulthood.”
The dramatic direction of “Young Martin” mirrors that of fellow iconic 1990s sitcom, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” which transformed into a serious series with “Bel-Air,” executive produced by Lawrence's “Bad Boy” co-star and Academy Award-winner Will Smith.
The original “Martin” series, which aired from 1992 to 1997, revolved around Payne, a witty Detroit-based radio host, and his colorful group of friends and love interests, including Gina Waters, played by Tisha Campbell-Martin.
Known for its hilarious antics, memorable characters, and Lawrence's versatile performances as Sheneneh Jenkins and Roscoe, "Martin" eventually became a cultural phenomenon.