Brandon Hammond just served up some nostalgia for Soul Food fans everywhere.
The actor, who played the unforgettable Ahmad in the 1997 classic, reunited with his on-screen grandmother Irma P. Hall to celebrate her 90th birthday—and gave fans a heartwarming glimpse into their bond that’s stood the test of time.
“Happy 90th Birthday to the LEGENDARY Ms. Irma P. Hall! It is not an overstatement to say that Irma’s career is nothing short of ICONIC,” Hammond wrote on Instagram.
Hall’s portrayal of Big Mama remains a defining performance in Black cinema—representing love, legacy, and the power of family gatherings. And according to Hammond, their real-life bond has been just as special.
“I met her as a 12-year-old boy whom she immediately treated like her grandson,” he continued. “Because of Soul Food, Irma would affectionately be known by so many as ‘Big Mama’ and I, as her ‘favorite grandbaby.’”
Hammond also revealed that he’s been quietly working on a Soul Food reunion documentary.
“Most of you don’t know that for the past couple of years I’ve been in the process of directing a Soul Food Reunion documentary (yes, really!),” he wrote. “And this afforded me the opportunity to visit Irma and her wonderful family a couple of years ago in Texas where she now resides.”
During that visit, they reminisced over memories and even shared a soul food-style dinner at the table—just like old times.
“Her hugs and smile were as I remember them… Being able to reminisce about that special time filming Soul Food almost 30 years ago is something that I will hold onto for dear life.”
Hammond ended his post reflecting on their enduring relationship, saying, “People truly do come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. Irma’s presence has fit all three of those categories.”
Originally released in 1997, Soul Food starred Hammond, Hall, Vanessa Williams, Vivica A. Fox, Nia Long, Michael Beach, and Mekhi Phifer. It quickly became a cultural staple—celebrated for its honest portrayal of Black family life, tradition, and love.
While there’s no release date yet for the reunion documentary, fans can stream Soul Food now on Apple TV and Tubi.