Carl Payne: The Untold Story Behind the Incident That Ended Martin

Martin was one of the most iconic sitcoms of the 1990s, beloved by millions for its sharp humor and unforgettable characters.

But beneath the laughter and catchphrases lies a story filled with tension, drama, and secrets that fans rarely knew.

What really happened behind the scenes?

Why did the show come to an abrupt end?

And how did Carl Payne, known for his role as Cole Brown, become embroiled in some of the darkest moments of the show’s history?

In this article, we uncover the hidden truths Carl Payne reveals about the incident that ultimately ended Martin, his personal struggles, and the resilience that has defined his career.

Prepare to discover the real story behind the laughter.

Carl Payne’s journey to stardom began long before he became the lovable “Cockroach” on The Cosby Show and later Cole Brown on Martin.

Born in Clinton, South Carolina, in 1969, Payne’s early life remains somewhat private, but his passion for performance was clear.

He studied acting in New York City, attending the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts and Howard University.

Interestingly, Payne’s talents extended beyond acting—he was also trained in ballet, showcasing a surprising versatility that many fans never expected.

His first major TV exposure came with The Cosby Show, where he played Walter “Cockroach” Bradley.

However, his time there was not without conflict.

Payne famously clashed with Bill Cosby over his hair, refusing to cut it as Cosby demanded, which led to his character being written off the show.

Payne’s role on Martin marked a turning point in his career.

As Cole Brown, he became a fan favorite, delivering comedic relief and memorable moments in a show that revitalized Black television in the 90s.

Yet, despite the on-screen camaraderie, behind the scenes things were far from harmonious.

The biggest source of tension was between Carl Payne and Martin Lawrence himself.

While Lawrence was the star and executive producer, Payne felt sidelined and disrespected.

The relationship deteriorated to the point where Payne described the environment as toxic, with Lawrence battling personal demons that fueled frequent on-set blowups.

The network’s favoritism toward Lawrence only deepened the divide, leaving Payne and others feeling like expendable parts.

One of the most explosive revelations Payne shared was about Martin Lawrence’s alleged drug use during the show’s run.

This turmoil contributed heavily to the chaos behind the scenes and strained professional relationships across the cast and crew.

The situation worsened when co-star Tisha Campbell filed a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and abuse by Lawrence.

Although the lawsuit was settled out of court, it left lasting scars and further poisoned the working environment.

The rift between Payne and Lawrence grew so severe that after Martin ended, they reportedly did not speak for nearly 20 years.

It was only after the death of their co-star Tommy Ford in 2016 that the cast reunited, setting aside old grievances to honor their friend.

Payne was by Ford’s side during his final days, a testament to the deep bonds forged despite past conflicts.

Following the end of Martin, Carl Payne faced a challenging period.

Acting roles became scarce, and at one point, Payne even stepped away from Hollywood to sell cars to support his family.

This period of struggle highlights the harsh realities many actors face when the spotlight fades.

On a personal front, Payne’s life took an unconventional turn when he married Malika, who had a son, Landon, fathered by Bobby Brown.

Payne has raised Landon since he was five years old, developing a strong bond with his stepson and maintaining a respectful friendship with Brown.

Though their family dynamic is unique, Payne’s commitment as a hands-on father and husband has remained steadfast, with the couple renewing their vows after overcoming a custody dispute.

Beyond acting, Payne expanded his creative pursuits into directing, producing, and motivational speaking.

He has directed independent films and episodes of television shows, demonstrating his ambition and versatility within the industry.

His efforts to mentor young actors and give back to the community through programs in Houston reflect his dedication to nurturing new talent and sharing his experiences.

Currently, Payne stars in the MTV dark comedy Binge to Death and continues to engage audiences with live performances and media appearances.

In 2024, he earned an NAACP nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a TV Movie or Limited Series, proving his enduring relevance and talent.

Carl Payne’s estimated net worth today ranges between $1.5 million and $10 million, reflecting his diverse career in acting, directing, production, and business ventures including real estate investments.

Despite the ups and downs, Payne has remained a beloved figure in entertainment, known for his humor, resilience, and authenticity.

His story is a powerful reminder that behind every beloved show lies a complex web of relationships and struggles.

The incident that ended Martin was not just about one person—it was a culmination of personal battles, industry pressures, and fractured friendships.

Yet, through it all, Carl Payne has emerged as a survivor, continuing to inspire fans and peers alike.

As fans celebrate the legacy of Martin and Carl Payne’s contributions, the real story behind the scenes adds depth to our appreciation.

The laughter and joy the show brought to millions came at a cost, but Payne’s journey shows that even in the face of adversity, passion and perseverance can light the way forward.