Martin Lawrence, simply known as Martin, has been attached to some of the most unforgettable television series and films in comedy since the 1900s. From his legendary time as the host of Def Comedy Jam to his epic television sitcom Martin, Lawrence has left an undeniable impression on entertainment and culture.
Surprisingly, in his four-decade career, Lawrence has never received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. That all changed on April 20 when the comedian officially received the 2,753rd star on the legendary boulevard of dreams. It’s better late than never. Steve Harvey, who spoke at the ceremony, shared in the sentiment.
“Tichina [Arnold] said, ‘I didn’t know he didn’t have a star,” Harvey joked during an endearing speech honoring his longtime friend. “If this dude don’t have a star, they need to take all of them up out the ground, dig all these damn things up!”
The influence of Lawrence has extended beyond his initial calling in the industry as a stand-up comedian, and that was mirrored by his peers attending the celebratory affair. Lynn Whitfield, who reminisced about their time working on the cult classic A Thin Line Between Love And Hate spoke to Lawrence’s impact not only as a phenomenal creative, but as someone who used his platform to empower women in their representation.
“I want to thank you on the behalf of all women, Martin, for always presenting women as strong,” Whitfield said while standing at the podium with Lawrence. “Many men in entertainment are not courageous enough to let us be our strong, full-blown selves as women, and you encourage it.”
Tracy Morgan, another longtime peer of Lawrence’s, was eager to give Lawrence his credit in a short but sweet speech. It was Lawrence who influenced Morgan’s style of comedy and gave him the beloved role of Hustle Man on his Fox sitcom. Several other comedians and actors attended the ceremony in support of their beloved friend, including Tichina Arnold, Affion Crockett, Deray Davis, and Michael Blackson.
Lawrence was clearly overwhelmed by the moment as he thanked his peers, family, and fans. The NAACP Image Award winner tearfully shared advice, “Board your dream bus with confidence, grace, and humility, and ride it until the wheels fall off. Let the doubters Runteldat.”
Lawrence has worked tirelessly in the entertainment industry as actor, writer, and producer. His first appearance on television occurred in 1987 with his role as Maurice Warfield on What’s Happening Now! where he would appear in 22 episodes. He later appeared on An Evening at the Improv, which was quickly followed by his memorable role as Cee in the 1989 Spike Lee joint Do The Right Thing. In 1990, Lawrence starred in the Reginald Hudlin film House Party, starring Kid ‘n’ Play, another unforgettable role where he played the eager student Bilal.
Lawrence’s list of credentials are packed with culture shifting films and entertainment that often sparked discourse outside of comedy, such as Boomerang, Life, the Bad Boy franchise, and stand-up specials Martin Lawrence: You So Crazy (1994), Martin Lawrence: Runteldat (2002), and Martin Lawrence: Doin’ Time (2016).
In addition to his star on the Walk of Fame, Lawrence, born April 16, was honored with an official day in Los Angeles to be recognized on April 20 of every year. Lawrence is currently shooting Bad Boys 4 and embarking on a new television sitcom, Nehama, which is in pre-production.
Watch the full Hollywood Walk Of Fame ceremony below:
