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Carl Payne It’s TIME TO EXPOSE EVERYTHING! | REVEALS The INCIDENT THAT ENDED MARTIN! | HO

Carl Anthony Payne II, famously known as Cole Brown from the beloved sitcom Martin, has had a long, multi-faceted career full of triumphs and struggles, earning him a reputation as a resilient figure in Hollywood. From his early days as Walter “Cockroach” Bradley on The Cosby Show to his iconic role in Martin, Payne has left a lasting impact on television. Beyond the camera, Payne’s journey includes familial connections with high-profile figures like Bobby Brown, a brief hiatus from acting, and recent involvement in directing, mentoring, and even motivational speaking.

Born in Clinton, South Carolina, on May 24, 1969, Carl Payne pursued acting from a young age, studying at the First All Children’s Theater in New York. He graduated from the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts and attended Howard University, setting a strong foundation for his career. Payne’s early work in television started with The Cosby Show, where he portrayed “Cockroach,” Theo Huxtable’s humorous best friend. However, his time on the show was cut short due to creative differences with Bill Cosby, particularly over a disagreement about Payne’s hairstyle.

In 1992, Payne joined Martin, starring alongside Martin Lawrence in what would become a culturally significant and highly rated sitcom on Fox. His character, Cole Brown, brought laughs with his unique personality, catchphrases, and comedic timing. Yet, behind the scenes, tensions brewed. Payne and Lawrence reportedly had ongoing conflicts, exacerbated by Lawrence’s personal struggles, including alleged substance abuse and erratic behavior. Payne later revealed that the atmosphere on set grew increasingly challenging, with Lawrence’s behavior straining relationships and production dynamics. This tension ultimately contributed to the show’s ending, although Lawrence’s personal and legal issues, including a sexual harassment lawsuit from co-star Tisha Campbell, played a significant role as well.

Payne’s personal life also experienced its share of complexity. In 1992, he married Malika Payne, the former partner of singer Bobby Brown. Together, they raised Malika’s son, Landon Brown, from her relationship with Bobby. Despite the potential for tension, Payne and Bobby Brown developed a solid friendship, with Payne becoming a dedicated stepfather to Landon. However, marital issues led to a temporary separation in 2012, though the couple reconciled, renewed their vows, and solidified their bond, demonstrating a shared commitment to their family.

Beyond Martin, Payne continued to diversify his career. He made guest appearances on popular TV shows like The Game, George Lopez, and The Ricky Smiley Show. He also took on roles in films such as The Walking Dead (1995) and Feast 3: The Happy Finish (2009), though his film work didn’t achieve the same level of success as his television roles. As a versatile performer, Payne extended his talents to theater, connecting with audiences in live settings and building a well-rounded performance repertoire.

In recent years, Payne has ventured into directing, producing, and motivational speaking, mentoring young actors and encouraging others through his journey and experiences. He directed independent films and produced projects that showcased his creative vision, highlighting his ambitions beyond acting. Additionally, Payne became involved in youth-focused programs, offering guidance and safe spaces for kids interested in the arts. His work includes the “Onet Film Camp” in Houston, where he nurtures young talent and emphasizes the importance of discovering a passion for performance arts.

After the abrupt end of Martin, Payne and Lawrence had minimal contact for nearly two decades. It wasn’t until the passing of their co-star Tommy Ford in 2016 that the cast reunited, bonding through grief and reconciling past issues. This reunion, which later culminated in a televised special on BET Plus, allowed Payne, Lawrence, and Tisha Campbell to reflect on their time together, celebrate Ford’s legacy, and appreciate the cultural impact of Martin.

In his interviews, Payne has spoken candidly about the challenges he faced, the lessons learned, and his gratitude for the experiences. His portrayal of Cole remains a beloved fixture in African-American television history, and Payne’s contributions to Martin continue to resonate with fans, underscoring the show’s enduring influence.

In 2024, Payne’s career remains active and vibrant. He stars in MTV’s dark comedy Binge to Death, which showcases his comedic chops in a fresh context. He also appears in Nickelodeon’s Tyler Perry’s Young Dylan, furthering his engagement with young audiences. His commitment to community work is evident in his philanthropic efforts, particularly his mentoring programs that provide resources for aspiring artists.

Carl Payne’s net worth is estimated to be between $1.5 million and $10 million, derived from his work in television, film, and business ventures. His real estate investments and production projects further diversify his income, reflecting his business acumen. Through it all, Payne’s commitment to authenticity and his family has kept him grounded, making him a figure of resilience in the entertainment industry.

Today, Carl Payne continues to evolve, embracing roles both in front of and behind the camera while maintaining a strong commitment to giving back. His legacy is more than just comedic roles; it’s a testament to determination, adaptability, and the importance of remaining true to oneself, no matter the obstacles.