Nearly three decades after its big-screen debut, Jason’s Lyric—the iconic 1994 film that explored love, trauma and redemption—is returning with a fresh new adaptation.
This time it’s for the stage, with an all-star cast, including singer, K. Michelle, who plays the role of Marti. The talented artist talked with the Defender about the stage play, produced by celebrated playwright and Houston native Je’Caryous Johnson, which is set to premiere Valentine’s Day weekend.
She is excited to bring the beloved story to life for a new generation of audiences.
“Those that come see this show are going to have a good time. They’re gonna cry, they’re gonna laugh, they’re gonna feel nostalgia from when they first saw the movie,” she said. “They’re gonna see some new elevated moments in the play. It’s really been brought together perfectly and it really is like a work of art.”
A timeless story, reimagined for the stage
Originally directed by Doug McHenry and written by Bobby Smith Jr., Jason’s Lyric captivated audiences in 1994 with its tender yet gripping portrayal of love’s ability to heal deep emotional wounds.
Set in Houston, the story follows Jason Alexander, a young man haunted by the painful legacy of his father’s abuse. As he struggles to break free from his past and build a future, Jason falls in love with Lyric, a woman who challenges him to embrace happiness and move forward—despite the weight of his trauma and family obligations.
The film, starring Allen Payne and Jada Pinkett (now Pinkett Smith), became a classic in Black cinema, celebrated for its poetic storytelling, emotional depth and Houston’s raw, Southern backdrop.
While honoring the essence of the original, the stage adaptation will reimagine its themes for a contemporary audience. The play promises to dive even deeper into the emotional journeys of its characters, offering fresh perspectives on love, trauma, and how healing manifests in today’s world.
K. Michelle says when the opportunity to star in the play came to her, she jumped at the chance.
“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” she said. “I started off my life in theater, performing arts. So I made it a point to always say that I was going to get back to it and make time for it, and I’m very happy that I did. I appreciate that you have to have real talent in theater. Nothing can be cleaned up or manipulated. What you see is what you get in theater and I absolutely love that.”
A star-studded cast brings the story to life
One of the most exciting aspects of the 2025 Jason’s Lyric stage play is its powerhouse cast. In addition to K. Michelle, who is playing the role of Marti, Lyric’s best friend, other actors include:
- Allen Payne as Jason
- Eva Marcille as Lyric, stepping into the role originally played by Jada Pinkett Smith
- Treach (of Naughty by Nature) as Alonzo
- Tyrin Turner as Josh
- Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs as Maddog
- Victoria Rowell as Gloria
With a mix of seasoned actors, music industry stars, and fresh talent, the stage production is set to bring a new vibrancy and depth to this classic story.
A new era for Jason’s Lyric
This theatrical revival marks a new chapter for Jason’s Lyric, bringing it from the screen to the stage in a way that both honors its origins and reinterprets its powerful messages for today’s audiences. Under Je’Caryous Johnson’s direction, the play is expected to be an unforgettable experience—one that speaks to both longtime fans of the film and newcomers alike.
Johnson, who has successfully adapted other Black cinema classics for the stage, including New Jack City and Set It Off, has a track record of turning beloved films into gripping live productions.
For tickets, visit Jecaryous.com
Go behind the scenes at “Jason’s Lyric” practice.
Hear from Victoria Rowell.
Hear from Treach.
