CARL PAYNE Cosby Show and Martin

Carl Anthony Payne, a successful actor, producer, and director, was born on May 24, 1969 in the small town of Clinton, South Carolina.  He began working towards his acting career at a young age by studying at the First All Children's Theater, which was an off Broadway reparatory theater company.  He later attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York City. Payne continued his education and training at Howard University in Washington, DC.  He is best known for his recurring roles as Theo Huxtable's best friend "Cockroach" on the ever popular and classic NBC's hit series, The Cosby Show and as “Cole Brown" on the FOX network TV series Martin. Carl currently stars as “Myles Wilson” on the Nickelodeon hit series “ Tyler Perry’s Young Dylan” which Carl  also directs.

 

Payne stays on top of his career by not allowing himself to be stereotyped or pigeonholed. He continues to display his versatility in front of and behind the camera as a director and producer. Most recently Payne directed the hit comedy “Strange Love” starring fellow comedian Kountry Wayne. He has directed and produced music videos, web series and short films, all while continuing to showcase his standup comedy in different cities across the country.

 

Payne has remained relevant among peers by his continued pursuit of excellence and commitment to legacy.  Aside from being on the big screen, Payne’s commitment to community enrichment and charitable organizations is never ending.

 

His advice to young aspiring actors and professionals “Perseverance is the hard work you do after you get tired of doing the hard work you already did."