Martin Lawrence's Health Questioned After Fans Claim His Speech Was 'Slurred' And 'Slow' During Radio Interview
As Martin Lawrence readies himself to return to stand-up comedy, some fans wonder whether or not he is up for it health wise.
Lawrence, who has been off the road since 2016, is ready to hit the stage again with his new comedy tour 'Y'all Know What It Is!' He recently spoke on 'The Rickey Smiley Morning Show' with encouraging words about the tour.
However, his appearance on the radio show did not instill his audience with confidence about the tour. It instead inspired many to question whether or not the comedian's health could withstand the demands of a tour schedule.
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After the interview, according to 'Atlanta Black Star,' many fans pointed out his purported slurred and slowed speech. One viewer posited, "He definitely had a stroke or something. All the enthusiasm is gone out of his voice. I hope he's not too bad off. I saw how Hollywood did Bernie [Mac.]"
Others commented that, while his voice was different in the recent interview, it was also different in the final season of the star's sitcom 'Martin.'
"People who are talking about Martin Lawrence's speech delay don't seem to notice that his speech was also different in the final season of the show Martin," one fan worte. "He doesn't owe us any explanation, as a fan just pray for him."
Lawrence, 59, has worked to dispel rumors about his well-being, including an interview with 'Hot 97' where he shared he's "fine."
"I'm in God's hands. I'm blessed... I'm glad to be waking up every day and everything," he said. "I'm all good. No need for people to be concerned. I'm healthy as hell. Stop the rumors!"
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The 'Bad Boys: Ride or Die" star explained that while writing material for his comedy tour, he wanted to have fun and bring joy to people.
This quest for levity has been largely inspired by the ongoing darkness of the world.
"You know, the world ... we in turmoil. You know, we divided, we're not together, you know, and people need laughter out here," he said. "You know, laughter is the medicine."
