June 18, 2026 — ALBUQUERQUE— Magenta Light Studios and Runteldat Entertainment announced today MARTIN LAWRENCE PRESENTS: PASS THA’ MIC, a new multi-episode comedy showcase event hosted by Jo Koy. The series will be filmed before a live studio audience on August 29–30, 2026, at the Legends Theater at Route 66 Casino Hotel in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Created by comedy icon Martin Lawrence, and Stacy Lyles, PASS THA’ MIC is designed to spotlight the next generation of stand-up talent, providing a national platform for rising comedians to perform alongside established voices in comedy. The series will celebrate comedy’s rich legacy while introducing audiences to the performers helping shape its future.
Joining the project as host is Jo Koy, one of the world’s most successful touring comedians. Known for his relatable storytelling and global appeal, Koy has built a massive international fanbase through multiple hit stand-up specials and sold-out arena tours. His performances have filled some of the world’s most iconic venues, including SoFi Stadium, Madison Square Garden, The O2 Arena, and Mall of Asia Arena. He brings his signature energy, humor, and unique perspective to the series.
“PASS THA’ MIC is about creating opportunities for the next generation of comedians and giving them a platform to be seen. Comedy has always been about discovering new voices, and I’m excited to help shine a light on talented performers who deserve that opportunity,” said Martin Lawrence.
“Martin Lawrence is an important figure in the history of stand-up comedy and television. PASS THA’ MIC continues that legacy by creating a showcase for emerging talent while bringing together some of the best voices in comedy today. As Magenta Light Studios continues to expand its television slate and invest in premium unscripted and comedy programming, we’re proud to partner with Martin, Runteldat Entertainment, Jo Koy, and this incredible team,” said Bob Yari, CEO of Magenta Light Studios.
The project is executive produced by Martin Lawrence, Bob Yari, Jo Koy, Stacy Lyles, Rae Proctor, Robert Lawrence, Leslie Small, David McPherson.
For more than three decades, Martin Lawrence has been one of comedy’s most influential and enduring entertainers. From his groundbreaking work on Def Comedy Jam and the hit sitcom Martin to blockbuster film franchises including BAD BOYS and BIG MOMMA’S HOUSE, Lawrence has consistently championed emerging talent while helping shape the modern comedy landscape.
The series also marks a significant milestone for Magenta Light Studios as the company’s first television series to be developed and produced in-house. The project represents an important expansion of the studio’s creative slate, building on its commitment to producing premium entertainment across multiple platforms. Yari has served as an Executive Producer on critically acclaimed series including YELLOWSTONE, DUTTON RANCH, LIONESS, THE MADISON, LANDMAN, TULSA KING, 1923, and 1883 among others.
Tickets will go fast and go on sale Friday, June 19. For more information, visit www.rt66casino.com.
ABOUT MAGENTA LIGHT STUDIOS
Magenta Light Studios is a production and distribution company formed by veteran producer Bob Yari. Founded on a principle to fill a crucial hole within the theatrical and television space, the studio looks to produce, distribute, and develop a versatile slate with an emphasis on storytelling and collaboration with its creators. Magenta Light Studios is dedicated to delivering quality independent films to the theatrical marketplace.
The studio’s principal founder Bob Yari, is best known for producing the 2004 drama CRASH, which won the Academy Award for best picture. His credits include films like Uma Thurman and Meryl Streep’s PRIME and Edward Norton’s THE ILLUSIONIST. He serves as executive producer on the massively lucrative Taylor Sheridan storytelling universe at Paramount, centered around Yellowstone and its many spinoffs.
Magenta Light Studios most recently released Renny Harlin’s DEEP WATER starring Aaron Eckhart and Ben Kingsley, and Adrian Grunberg’s PROTECTOR starring Milla Jovovich. Previous releases included Simon West’s BRIDE HARD, starring Rebel Wilson, Anna Camp, Anna Chlumsky and Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and JT Mollner’s critically acclaimed cat-and-mouse thriller STRANGE DARLING, which won the Saturn Award for Best Thriller, starring Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner. Next up will be James McAvoy’s directorial debut, CALIFORNIA SCHEMIN’ in theaters October 16, 2026 and Bharat Nalluri’s FLAVIA, in theaters December 4, 2026. They are also in post-production on Ed Kaplan’s SUMMERHOUSE starring Malcolm McDowell and Jacob Ward.
ABOUT RUNTELDAT ENTERTAINMENT
Founded in 1994 by Martin Lawrence, Runteldat Entertainment is a multifaceted production and media company specializing in film, television, comedy, and branded content. Co-founded with President Robert Lawrence and veteran producer Rae Proctor, Runteldat Entertainment has built one of the industry’s most successful independent comedy production portfolios.
Film credits include the Big Momma’s House franchise, Rebound, Black Knight, National Security, What’s the Worst That Could Happen?, A Thin Line Between Love and Hate, Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins, and Mindcage. Comedy and television credits include You So Crazy, Runteldat, Doin’ Time, The Lit AF Tour, Martin, First Amendment Standup, Partners, and The Martin Reunion Special.
ABOUT ROUTE 66 CASINO HOTEL:
Route 66 Hotel, proudly managed by Laguna Development Corporation, offers premier gaming, dining and entertainment in New Mexico. The property features over 1,060 slot machines, 15 table games, and award winning restaurants including Buffet 66, Thunder Road Steak House, Stadium 66 Sports Bar, Laguna Burger and The Snack Bar. Guests can enjoy first- class entertainment at Legends Theatre a state of the art 2,962 seat venue hosting top national acts. The property also features a 154room hotel, the award winning Route 66 RV Resort and a full service Route 66 Travel Center.
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