Martin Lawrence is revealing that he was once asked to star alongside Jackie Chan in the 1998 film, ‘Rush Hour. Furthermore, the actor is explaining why he turned down the opportunity.
Martin Lawrence Discusses His “Rush Hour” Offer and Why He Turned It Down
PEOPLE reports that on Tuesday, June 4, Lawrence and fellow actor Will Smith made an appearance on an episode of “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”
Then a YouTube video featuring the two of them playing a game of “True Confessions” was made public.
In order to play the game, players must select one of two envelopes, open it, and read the “confession” aloud. Next, it is up to the other competitor to decide if the statement is true or not.
Lawrence opened one of his envelopes to begin the game, and it said:
“Jackie Chan asked me to star in ‘Rush Hour’ with him, but I turned it down.”
Smith responded with some thought, saying in jest, “Jackie Chan likes Black people.” The actor then made an effort to badger Lawrence for further details regarding Chan’s purported request.
Lawrence claimed he and Chan had met for dinner to talk about the request, caving in to Smith’s quest for further information regarding the veracity of the statement. Lawrence further claimed that he rejected Chan’s offer because it “wasn’t enough money.”
At first, Fallon dismissed Lawrence’s assertion. Smith, though, trusted his fellow “Bad Boy” actor.
“It’s true,” Lawrence told the pair, as Fallon appeared shocked.
The actor discussed his reaction upon learning of the film’s success.
The host then questioned Lawrence about his feelings toward being afraid after he turned down the role and watched it turn into a “giant hit.” According to PEOPLE, the movie inspired two sequels and ended up becoming the ninth highest-grossing domestic film of that year.
Lawrence declared himself unfazed.
“No, no, no,” the actor replied, before adding. “I was happy for Chris [Tucker]. That’s what it was supposed to be. Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan – and they brought a beautiful franchise with ‘Rush Hour.’”
Martin Lawrence recently responded to health-related rumors
Lawrence recently corrected misconceptions about his health while making an appearance as a guest on Hot 97, as was previously reported. The 59-year-old assured supporters that he is “fine,” despite what they may think.
“I’m fine,” he explained. “I’m in God’s hands. I’m blessed, you know. I’m glad to be waking up every day and everything — [there’s] no need for people to be concerned.”
Lawrence also assured supporters that he is “healthy as hell.”
