“Martin” fans, get ready because a spin-off of the 90s sitcom is finally on the way, but it’s not who you suspect. The series titled “Varnell Hill.” will relaunch Tommy Davidson’s character, who appeared on the series for two episodes, and now BET is giving him his own show. Fans may remember Davidson’s two episodes, “Hollywood Swinging” introduced fans to Hill, a talk show host who got into it with Martin Payne.
The new series sets to “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,” according to The Hollywood Reporter. “With its blend of satire, humor, cutaways, and fourth-wall breaks, the show promises to engage audiences in a fresh and innovative way.”
Davidson released a statement regarding the series, writing, “Did you miss me? 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.” Martin Lawrence himself posted about the series on his Instagram page. The internet shows people have mixed reactions to the news, however.
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With the sitcom “The Neighborhood” ending after its eighth season, fans have been waiting for more answers on a rumored spin-off. It was reported that Cedric’s sons on the show, Malcolm and Marty, potential exit has been hinted at a sitcom that would focus on the Butler Bros.
A backdoor pilot will air as part of The Neighborhood’s one-hour Season 7 finale (on Monday, May 5 at 8/7c) and introduce several new characters who will join Calvin and Tina’s sons as they branch out on their own.
The March 31 episode already previewed Malcolm’s spin-off storyline: After being passed over for head coach of USC’s baseball team, the assistant coach told his toupee-wearing boss to shove it. He returned home and revealed to his family that he quit his job, but he clearly didn’t know what he was going to do next.
Well, it was reported this week that “The Neighborhood” will not expand its boundaries any further, at least not for now. Two spin-offs of the long-running sitcom were in development, including one centered on a new character named Francois, a.k.a. Crutch, and another focused on fan-favorite brothers Marty and Malcolm Butler.
The former, which previously cast Tracy Morgan as its titular lead, has already been ordered into a series at Paramount+. Unfortunately, the latter did not receive the same fate, as CBS officially announced it would not move forward with the project. The news comes as the network continues to apply finishing touches to its programming lineup for the 2025–2026 TV season, which will include “The Neighborhood” Season 8, announced as the final outing for the beloved sitcom.
“The Neighborhood” featured Cedric the Entertainer as Calvin; Tishina Arnold as his wife, Tina; Max Greenfield as Dave; Beth Behrs, Dave’s wife Gemma; and brothers Marcel Spears, Marty, and Sheaun McKinney as Malcolm.
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“Poppa’s House” Cancelled too… Say it ain’t so! CBS has decided not to renew the comedy series “Poppa’s House” for a second season, making it the only freshman scripted series to be canceled.
The show starred Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr. The decision comes as CBS has renewed other series like Matlock, NCIS: Origins, and Watson, along with the comedy Georgie & Mandy First Marriage, for the upcoming season.
“Poppa’s House” had been competing for a spot on the network’s schedule with other pilots but ultimately lost out to a new project series called DMV. “DMV” a single-camera comedy starring Harriett Dyer, Tim Meadows, Molly Kearney, and Alex Tarrant; and “Einstein,” a drama led by Gubler and Salazar. Despite being a respectable performer, the show’s ratings were lower than other renewed comedies on CBS.
Damon Wayans Sr. gives a heartfelt tribute to the show, cast, and crew. He wrote in his IG post, “Creating Poppa’s House was such a beautiful journey. My heart is full as I say thank you to every single person who made Poppa’s House such a meaningful experience.
To the incredible cast, you brought so much heart, soul, and joy to every scene. It was an absolute honor to share the screen with you and create something special together. To the writers, producers, directors, and the entire crew, you were the heartbeat of this show. Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and for showing up every day with love and commitment. You made the set feel like home.”
Giving a special thank you to his son, “Damon Jr., working beside you has been one of the greatest joys of my life. And to my incredible family, siblings, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, who showed up as writers, guest stars, and creative forces, you made this journey even more meaningful. It’s such a blessing to have so much love on one set and to be able to create and laugh with family and friends.”
One of our favorite TV dads claims, “walking away with deep gratitude, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable memories. This show gave me more than I could’ve ever imagined. To everyone who watched, supported, and believed in us, thank you. Your love means everything. On to the next chapter, with nothing but love in my heart,” he added.
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