Tommy Davidson Leads Paramount+ Spinoff 'The Varnell Hill Show' Premiering Sept. 1

Paramount+ is launching a new half‑hour workplace comedy, **The Varnell Hill Show**, a spinoff of the 1990s sitcom *Martin*. The series stars veteran comedian **Tommy Davidson** reprising his character Varnell Hill, who first appeared in a 1993 two‑part arc. The show is executive‑produced by **Martin Lawrence**—who also returns for guest appearances as Martin Payne—and **Bentley Kyle Evans**.

The eight‑episode first season will debut globally on September 1, 2026, with two episodes released that day followed by weekly episodes through October 13. The premise follows Varnell Hill behind the scenes of his long‑running late‑night talk show as he battles network executives, a chaotic writers’ room, celebrity guests and his own oversized ego. The official description notes, “*Nearly three decades after audiences first met him, Varnell Hill is stepping back into the spotlight — and he’s determined to prove he’s still the star of the show.*”

The ensemble cast includes **Kym Whitley**, **Wendy Raquel Robinson**, **Nick Cafero**, **Emmanuel Hudson**, and **Chris Williams**, with guest stars **Ms. Pat**, **Deon Cole**, **Damon Wayans**, **Mike Epps**, and **Omarion**. Production involves BET Studios and Harvest Studios, among others.