Martin Lawrence Reflects on Becoming a Grandfather and Reuniting With Michael Jackson’s Legacy at the ‘Michael’ Premiere

At the Los Angeles premiere of Michael, Martin Lawrence gave fans a warm and funny update on family life while also sharing his excitement for one of the year’s most anticipated films. Speaking with Entertainment Tonight’s Kevin Frazier, the comedy icon opened up about becoming a grandfather and his anticipation for Jaafar Jackson’s performance in the Michael Jackson biopic, which is set to hit U.S. theaters on April 24, 2026.

Martin Lawrence Is Loving His New “Papa” Era

Martin did not hold back when asked about welcoming his first granddaughter. With his signature humor, he joked that he plans to spoil her completely.

“I’m Papa. So I’mma spoil her and give her all the candy she want. Let her stay up all night. And then when she boo boo on herself, I’mma give it to Eddie.”

That punchline landed exactly how fans would expect from Martin, especially because this new family connection also ties him even closer to fellow comedy legend Eddie Murphy. Martin’s daughter, Jasmin Lawrence, and Eddie Murphy’s son, Eric Murphy, welcomed a baby girl named Ari Skye in April 2026. The couple reportedly married in May 2025, making this a joyful new chapter for two of comedy’s most famous families.

Why Martin Showed Up for ‘Michael’

Lawrence made it clear that his reason for attending the Michael premiere was simple: he wanted to see whether Jaafar Jackson could truly make audiences believe they were watching Michael Jackson on screen.

“I’m real excited. That’s why I’m here. I want to see if he can really make us believe he’s Michael.”

That curiosity is shared by many fans who have waited years for the biopic to arrive. Martin also said he had confidence in the project once he learned Antoine Fuqua was directing it, suggesting that gave him faith the film would be handled seriously and with cinematic weight. Michael is directed by Fuqua and stars Jaafar Jackson as his famous uncle.

“Jaafar Is Going to Have You Thinking It’s Michael”

In one of the strongest moments from the interview, Kevin Frazier assured Martin that Jaafar’s transformation was the real deal.

“Jaafar is going to have you up there thinking it’s Michael.”

That line captures the biggest question surrounding the film: can anyone truly embody Michael Jackson’s movement, energy, and stage presence? For many viewers, that will be the standard. Martin’s own comments showed he is looking for more than just resemblance. He wants to see whether Jaafar can channel the same electricity Michael brought to every performance.

Martin Says He Feels Great at 61

Beyond family and film, Martin also gave a brief but encouraging personal update. The actor said he is feeling strong, staying active, and trying to take care of himself.

“I feel great. I’m working out, eating right, trying to do the best I can. I’m 61 years old now… I’m just trying to ride it till the wheels fall off.”

It was a grounded moment from a performer whose legacy in comedy and film is already secure. For longtime fans, it was good to see Martin in high spirits, embracing both a new stage of life and a major Hollywood night tied to one of the biggest pop culture stories of 2026.

A Premiere Full of Nostalgia, Family, and High Expectations

Martin Lawrence’s red carpet moment brought together several emotional threads at once: family legacy, comedy royalty, and the continued fascination with Michael Jackson’s life and career. With Michael finally arriving on April 24, the film is positioned as one of the most talked-about releases of the month, and reactions from stars like Martin only add to the anticipation.

For WWETV readers, Martin’s appearance at the premiere was more than a celebrity soundbite. It was a reminder that Michael is already pulling major figures from across entertainment into its orbit — and everyone seems to be asking the same question:

Can Jaafar Jackson really make the world believe?