Martin: The Reunion — release date, special guests, trailer and everything we know about the 30 year anniversary event

Martin Lawrence, Tisha Campbell, Carl Anthony Payne II and Tichina Arnold laughing on set of Martin: The Reunion
Martin Lawrence, Tisha Campbell, Carl Anthony Payne II and Tichina Arnold in Martin: The Reunion (Image credit: BET)

Martin is a sitcom that stands as a monument to the culture of the 90s. When it premiered on Fox in 1992, the concept of the show was considered incredibly nuanced and a breath of fresh air to TV viewers. The series followed radio host turned talk show host, Martin, as he and his girlfriend-turned-wife Gina navigated love and life in their 20s. Of course, we can’t forget, Pam, Cole and Tommy. 

Over five seasons, fans like us grew to appreciate the sitcom for the hilarious storylines and the comedic genius of Martin Lawrence. We laughed ourselves to tears listening to the banter between Martin and Pam, and applauded the comedian’s ability to not only portray the titular character, but also Dragon Fly Jones, Otis, Roscoe, Bob, Mrs. Payne and we can’t forget Sheneneh Jenkins. 

Now 30 years later, most of the original cast gathers together to discuss their favorite moments from the show, share some behind-the-scenes insight and talk about what the show meant to them and its legacy. 

Here’s everything we know about Martin: The Reunion.  

By the way, be sure to check out our coverage of the Martin: The Reunion red carpet event

Martin: The Reunion release date

Martin: The Reunion premiered in the US on BET Plus Thursday, June 16th. 

For those that weren't able to watch the reunion in June and missed the amazing revelations from the special, you'll have the opportunity to stream it on Friday, December 16 on HBO Max

Unfortunately, we still don't have word as to when the special will become available to would-be viewers in the UK. Once we receive more information on that, we'll pass along the update here. 

Martin: The Reunion premise 

Tisha Campbell and Martin Lawrence at Martin: The Reunion premiere

Tisha Campbell and Martin Lawrence, Martin: The Reunion (Image credit: Robin L Marshall/Getty Images for BET)

BET describes the premise of Martin: The Reunion as the following: 

"The reunion special, hosted by comedian and actor Affion Crockett, will include Martin Lawrence (Martin), Tisha Campbell (Gina), Tichina Arnold (Pamela) and Carl Anthony Payne II (Cole), along with surprise guest appearances. Taking a look at the show’s origin and evolution, the reunion will feature interviews with the cast, original directors, special musical performances and behind-the-scenes commentary on the importance and impact of the show that shaped a generation."

Does the reunion special have you feeling nostalgic? HBO Max subscribers can currently stream episodes of Martin. The show is also available to stream for those with a Prime Video premium subscription.  

Martin: The Reunion cast 

Carl Anthony Payne II, Tisha Campbell, Martin Lawrence and Tichina Arnold at Martin: The Reunion

Carl Anthony Payne II, Tisha Campbell, Martin Lawrence and Tichina Arnold at Martin: The Reunion (Image credit: BET Plus)

As previously mentioned, most of the original cast is back to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the show. Famed comedian Martin Lawrence (Big Mama’s House, Bad Boys), Tisha Campbell (My Wife and Kids, School Daze), Tichina Arnold (The Neighborhood, Everybody Hates Chris) and Carl Anthony Payne II (Young Dylan, 5th Ward).

One person that is noticeably absent from the reunion is Thomas Mikal Ford. As detailed by the New York Daily News, Ford passed away in 2016 after suffering from a ruptured aneurysm. 

Martin: The Reunion host 

On hand as host of the special event is actor and comedian Affion Crockett. Crockett is perhaps best known for portraying Reggie in The Wedding Ringer and his years as a staple on Nick Cannon’s Wild 'N Out.  

Martin: The Reunion special guests 

While BET Plus is keeping many things about Martin: The Reunion under lock and key, at least two special guests have been announced. Rapper Snoop Dogg is featured in some capacity in the special event. Not only did he once have a role on Martin years ago, but he recently wrapped up a stint on American Song Contest and portrayed Pastor Swift in BMF

Also guest starring in the reunion is comedian Tommy Davidson. Davidson shot to stardom in the 1990s sketch comedy show In Living Color and voices the character Oscar Proud in The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder

Martin: The Reunion trailer 

After watching the trailer, we are excited to see that they recreated the Martin living room for the occasion. Also, those who tune in will get an answer from the cast as to whether or not there should be a Martin reboot. (We’ll reserve our thoughts on that one.)

How to watch Martin: The Reunion 

Martin: The Reunion becomes available to stream in the US on HBO Max as of December 16. 

Unfortunately, no plans have been announced as to when the special may be available to stream in the UK. 

Terrell Smith

Terrell Smith has a diverse writing background having penned material for a wide array of clients including the federal government and Bravo television personalities.  When he’s not writing as Terrell, he’s writing under his pseudonym Tavion Scott, creating scripts for his audio drama podcasts. Terrell is a huge fan of great storytelling when it comes to television and film. Some of his favorite shows include The CrownWandaVision, Abbot Elementary and Godfather of HarlemAnd a fun fact is he's completely dialed into the TLC 90 Day Fiancé universe.