Martin Lawrence

“I don't like forcing comedy and people just trying to do things just to find a funny beat all the time.” Martin Lawrence is an American actor and comedian best known for his role in the sitcom Martin (1992–1997), where he showcased his versatility by playing multiple characters. After high school, he pursued stand-up comedy and briefly worked at a call center with future hip-hop stars. He gained early fame with roles in TV shows like What’s Happening Now!! (1985–88) and movies like Do the Right Thing (1989) and House Party (1990). Lawrence’s career expanded with his role as host of Def Comedy Jam (1992–93) and the sitcom Martin, which launched him into a successful film career. His breakout movie role came in Bad Boys (1995) alongside Will Smith. He also starred in A Thin Line Between Love and Hate (1996) and Nothing to Lose (1997). Later successes included Life (1999), Big Momma’s House (2000), and its sequels. Lawrence reunited with Will Smith for Bad Boys II (2003) and Bad Boys for Life (2020). His film career includes Open Season (2006), Wild Hogs (2007), and College Road Trip (2008). Lawrence is also credited with popularizing the greeting “wassup?” and has remained a prominent figure in comedy and action films throughout his career.