What is "hammertime"

Hammertime is a reality TV show on the A&E Network about M.C. Hammer and his family, produced by 3Ball Productions Inc. The title comes from the lyrics of Hammer's song " U Can't Touch This" (which became a popular culture catchphrase used in many television shows and movies), as well as his nickname.1 Unlike previous shows Hammer was involved with, Hammertime focused only on him and his family who are living in Tracy, California in a large ranch-style abode situated on a two-acre corner lot.2 At the time the show began, Hammer and his wife Stephanie had been married for over 25 years and raising six children: Bobby, Jeremiah, Sammy, Sarah, A'keiba (eventually spending some time at college) and nephew Jamaris; along with his cousin Marv co-starring. After Hammer's personal superstar status, he wanted to involve his entire family with him for this project. Hammer served as one of the executive producers for the show. The series premiered June 14, 2009, airing on Sundays at 10 PM EST. For the first season, 11 episodes and a bonus 12th were ordered. Webisodes can still be viewed on the network's website.3

On July 30, 2009, Hammer's cousin "Bigg Marv" was arrested on rape charges after being accused by a woman he had met online.4 With over a million followers, Hammer utilized his Twitter page to call the charges 'pure nonsense' and expressed his thoughts on the arrest. He tweeted: "Marv has been picked up. We're standing by him. Welcome to Fame Cousin Marv. We're praying for you". He went on to say, "Thanks for your Prayers for Bigg Marv. He's a good guy, he has not been exposed to the ‘World of Fame’ where you become ‘The Prey’."5 Some speculate that the show was cancelled because of Marv's rape case.67 In June 2010, the charges against Marv were dropped and the case dismissed.89