One Last Thing with Jesse L. Martin: The Actor Recalls a Tearful Moment with Mother-DaughterRentFans (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Jesse L. Martin.Photo:JSquared Photography/NBCUniversal

JSquared Photography/NBCUniversal

Jesse L. Martinhas had many memorable fan encounters, but his most recent experience left a lasting impact.

“The daughter was completely shy so she just looked shell shocked and the mom was in tears,” Martin, 55, recalls of the noteworthy encounter. As he sat down with the mother-daughter duo, Martin learned that the mother had been a fan of the original Broadway production ofRent, while the daughter loved the movie — both of which Martin starred in as Tom Collins.

Jesse L. Martin as Alec Baker; Maahra Hill as Marisa in ‘The Irrational’.Sergei Bachlakov/NBC

Sergei Bachlakov/NBC

“They both had their own experiences with the story ofRent,” Martin says. “For the mom, it was the first Broadway show she ever saw. The daughter listened as her mom shared the story of attending the show and then introducing her to the movie, which featured the same cast. It was a beautiful bonding moment for those two.”

Admittedly, this is not the first time Martin has seen two generations ofRentlovers living under one roof. “That happens a lot withRent,” he says.

Martin shares more memorable moments with PEOPLE for One Last Thing:

Last time I stayed up too late

Last night. I got home from shooting and stayed up to watchAmerican Ninja Warrior.I don’t want to do those things, but I love watching others do them.

Last thing I took from a set

OnThe IrrationalI gave my students thermal cups for an experiment. Now I use one daily for my black coffee. I take it with honey instead of sugar; I want to believe it’s healthier.

Last time I sang out loud

Last time I stepped out of my comfort zone

Five years ago I mentioned adopting a dog to a friend, who immediately started sharing shelter links. I was hesitant until I met Romeo, and then I changed my entire life and continue to do so. Some people would call him a mutt, but I’d never say that to him.

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The Irrationalairs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET on NBC and steams on Peacock.

source: people.com