biopic Archives - New Hip Hop News

Don Cheadle Reveals Kendrick Lamar Declined Role In His Miles Davis Biopic

October 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

During his recent appearance on Way Up With Angela Yee, Don Cheadle opened up about his part in Kendrick Lamar’s 2017 “DNA” video. He also took the opportunity to reveal that he offered Kendrick a role in his Miles Davis biopic, Miles Ahead. Unfortunately, Kendrick turned it down, but it seems like he had a solid reason.

“To talk about acting, when we shot [the ‘D.N.A.’] video, Kendrick was so with it. […] He stayed in character the whole video. […] He was really committed,” Cheadle explained, “He was someone that I had thought about casting in my movie I did, Miles Ahead, and have him play the role of Junior.”

Don Cheadle Recalls Considering Kendrick Lamar To Play Junior In Miles Ahead

“We talked about it for a long time and ultimately he said, ‘I don’t think I’m ready to do that. I’m kind of working on a project right now and I have to see that through and I also don’t wanna come in here halfway,’ and I was like, ‘No, I get it,’” Cheadle continued. “And it was [his 2015 album] To Pimp A Butterfly and I’m like, ‘I think you made the right choice on that one!’”

Now, several years later, Kendrick is preparing to make his acting debut. He’s set to appear in a film with South Park co-creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker. They were spotted filming earlier this week in Pomona, California. Variety reports that the film will hit theaters next summer. It will follow “a young Black man interning as a slave reenactor at a living history museum who discovers that his white girlfriend’s ancestors once owned his,” according to a post from Discussing Film. What do you think of Don Cheadle revealing that Kendrick Lamar declined a role in his 2015 Miles Davis biopic? Does this surprise you or not? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

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Pharrell Williams Pens Inspiring “Piece By Piece” For Upcoming LEGO Animated Biopic

September 6, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Pretty soon, we are going to learn more about the mastermind that is Pharell Williams. According to Rolling Stone, his LEGO animated biopic, Piece By Piece, will be in theaters by October 11 with Focus Features being the distributor. The trailer for the film was released back in June and it will depict the life and influential career of the Virginia Beach, Virginia native. Adding some extra excitement to the movie is the inclusion of multiple hip-hop icons and their LEGO avatars. Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, JAY-Z, and more will all have roles in what should be an interesting watch. With the multi-hyphenate being behind a project like this, an original soundtrack was almost a sure thing. That’s why it’s no surprise that Pharrell Williams has dropped the first/self-titled single for it today, “Piece By Piece”.

The veteran is no stranger to writing catchy and kid-friendly compositions for films and there might not be anyone better, at least in hip-hop. “Piece By Piece” is a record that encourages people to embrace the journey instead of sprinting to the finish line. Pharrell has certainly paid his dues in the music industry, so this track should fit right at home with his film’s potential overarching messages. Piece By Piece has been viewed at by movie critics already at the Telluride Film Festival in Colorado, and so far, it’s gotten mixed reviews. However, things could change once it gets a wider screening.

“Piece By Piece” – Pharrell Williams

Quotable Lyrics:

I started a long time ago
I will write my own chronicle
Turn around, that ain’t me
Know they followin’ the lead
Ninety bill, what I see?
You know it starts with a peace

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DMX’s Ex-Wife Tashera Simmons Denies Working With Irv Gotti On Biopic

September 1, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Earlier this month, Wack 100 revealed that Irv Gotti suffered a stroke this year. He shared the unfortunate news on his podcast and later leaked a photo of him walking with a cane. Shortly after, Gotti’s team confirmed the news in a statement to TMZ, revealing that he’s doing just fine now.

“Irv has been struggling with diabetes for years, which caused him to have a minor stroke over six months ago,” a rep explained. “He has since changed his diet to eating more healthy. He’s been successful in making a full recovery. Irv is not in a rehab facility. He is at home with his family, enjoying life.” He later chatted with The Shade Room, assuring the outlet that he was in good health.

Tashera Simmons Reacts To Irv Gotti Announcement

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“I’m getting older. That’s all,” he said. “Only thing worse than getting old is not getting old.” Gotti also revealed that he’s currently working on a DMX biopic. Now, however, DMX’s ex-wife Tashera Simmons has taken to Instagram to issue a statement in response to Gotti’s claim. “In light of recent speculation, we want to clarify that we are not currently working with Irv Gotti, nor have we agreed to partner with him on any content related to Earl Simmons, including a biopic,” she wrote.

“Earl Simmons, known professionally as DMX, is an iconic figure in the music industry whose life and story hold significant importance. As we move forward with any potential projects related to his legacy, we are committed to ensuring that they are handled with the utmost respect and integrity,” the statement continues. “We appreciate the support and interest from fans and the public regarding Earl Simmons’ story. Any official announcements regarding future projects will be communicated through our official channels.” What do you think of Tashera Simmons’ response to Irv Gotti claiming he’s working on a DMX biopic? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

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LL Cool J Thinks Snoop Dogg Should Play Him In A Biopic

August 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Although LL Cool J is dropping a new album this year, he’s also very content with reflecting on his legacy and impact within hip-hop from a retrospective stance. However, while he’s happy to indulge in his career and in his legendary status in the game, he doesn’t want to do all the steps that the industry would go through for an icon of his profile. Moreover, during a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, the New York MC revealed that he’s not particularly interested in a biopic or documentary on his life. If it happens, though, he has a pretty comical, fitting, and curious answer to the question of who would play him.

“I’m open to it but I’m not gonna lie, it bores me a little bit,” LL Cool J said of the prospect of a film based on his life and career. “I don’t know, I have mixed emotions about it, I don’t know, I just have a lot to do creatively and I feel like I could do a lot. It’s not that I’m against it. I’m open to doing a documentary, I’m open to the idea of doing a biopic but it just doesn’t excite me.”

LL Cool J & Snoop Dogg At The 2nd Annual All Def Movie Awards

LL Cool J Snoop Dogg Play Him Movie Biopic Hip Hop News — LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 22: Rappers LL Cool J and Snoop Dogg present an award at the 2nd Annual All Def Movie Awards at Belasco Theatre on February 22, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Greg Doherty/Getty Images)

Still, LL Cool J said that although this proposition slightly bores him, his career and life’s trajectory is not uninteresting at all. “It’s kind of like me turning around in the mirror with my jeans on and looking at myself. I don’t know what that means, I don’t do that a lot,” he added. In addition, LL also remarked on Snoop Dogg developing his own biographical film, and about how Tha Doggfather has expressed interest in doing the same for him. “Only under the condition that he actually plays me,” he responded to this notion. “I need Snoop to be me in the biopic. You can produce it if you do that!”

Meanwhile, LL Cool J’s guru-like perspective applies not just to his own career or that of rappers of his generation, but also to the newer guard. “This s**t is crazy,” he said of Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s battle, particularly of the “Not Like Us” cover art. “This ain’t got nothing to do with nothing, but it’s the funniest s**t in the world. It’s bananas. That kind of thinking, you have to respect that.”

Read More: LL Cool J’s Essential Songs

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Ghostface Killah Admits He’s Never Watched “Wu-Tang: An American Saga”

June 29, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Ghostface Killah has revealed that he’s never watched an episode of the Hulu series, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, and likely never will. Speaking about the show centered around the iconic hip-hop group during an interview on the Touré Show, Ghostface explained why he’s completely uninterested in checking it out.

“I never seen that sh*t. I never watched it,” he said. “Never in my life. RZA know that. Because that’s not my story. You want a Ghostface story, you get a Ghostface story. You could take a piece of me: ‘Oh, he had two brothers with muscular dystrophy.’ I’m me. There’s a story behind myself.” He added that RZA is his “brother” and is still happy for his success.

RZA Attends “Wu-Tang: An American Saga” Premiere

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 04: RZA attends the Wu-Tang: An American Saga Premiere on September 04, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for Hulu)

Ghostface isn’t the only Wu-Tang Clan member to reveal that haven’t checked out any of the series. Method Man previously made similar comments while discussing the show with Kevin Hart for an episode of the Golden Minds podcast, last year. “So to see this come to fruition on screen, it was a no-brainer for me knowing how RZA works,” he said at the time. “In the beginning, it was like, ‘Wow, they’re taking a lot of liberties here with the story.’ In hindsight, knowing how some of these things work, and embellishments and sometimes dudes still be having open cases and sh*t so I could understand. I haven’t watched an episode, personally, but I get the scripts ahead of time. Everything ain’t for everybody, that’s all I could say.” He went on to describe RZA as a “genius.”

Ghostface Killah Discusses Wu-Tang: An American Saga

Check out Ghostface’s full interview with Touré above. Be on the lookout for further updates on Ghostface Killah and the rest of the Wu-Tang Clan on HotNewHipHop.

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Rihanna Reveals Which Actress She Wants To Star In Her Biopic

June 12, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Rihanna says she wants Taylor Russell to play her in a biopic about her career if one ever gets made. She explained why she’d go with the Bones and All star while speaking with E! News on the red carpet at the launch of Fenty Hair on Monday.

“You know why? Because she’s got, like, a nice forehead,” Rihanna explained. “She’s, like, fly. And I feel like I want to be her, so I want her to pretend to be me. I want people to see me in that light.” In addition to Bones and All, Russell starred in A24’s Waves.

Rihanna Attends Fenty Hair Launch In Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 10: Rihanna arrives at the Rihanna x Fenty Hair Los Angeles Launch Party at Nya Studios on June 10, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kayla Oaddams/WireImage)

Despite the comments, as well as wearing an “I’m retired” shirt last week, Rihanna says she’s still working on new music. She also clarified during the event: “That was just me looking into the future. I’m not retired. I just like that dress. I got it as a gift and I loved it. They didn’t read the second line, I’m not retired, I’m just retired from dressing up — it’s a lot of effort.” She further explained that the delay stems from her starting from scratch. “Yeah, I’m starting over,” she admitted to Entertainment Tonight. “But I don’t want to neglect the songs that I have, so I actually want to go back and listen to stuff with new ears, with my new perspective and then see what applies and what I’m still in love with.” She hasn’t released an album since 2016’s Anti. Check out Rihanna’s comments on Rusell below.

Rihanna Praises Taylor Russell

Rihanna said she’d want actress Taylor Russell to play her in a biopic:

“She got a nice forehead. She’s fly. I wanna be her, so I want her to pretend to be me. I want people to see me in that light.” Via @enews. https://t.co/ygl5jzZmVJ pic.twitter.com/911GmMhMRC

— Fenty Headlines (@FentyHeadlines) June 12, 2024

Fenty Hair is available now via early access. A full-scale launch will follow suit on Thursday, June 13. Be on the lookout for further updates on Rihanna on HotNewHipHop.

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Yungeen Ace Asks 50 Cent To Make A Film Based On His Life After Weapons Arrest

April 23, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Yungeen Ace was recently arrested on gun possession charges, adding another chapter to the many highs and lows of his turbulent life and career. At least, that’s what we’ve seen in the headlines on occasion, and that seems to be something that he’s well aware of, as well. Moreover, the Florida native recently took to Instagram with a message for one of hip-hop’s most successful and well-connected moguls in the wider entertainment industry. “@50cent I’m trying to get in contact with you about a move about my life,” he posited to the G-Unit boss, who hasn’t responded publicly to this request at press time.

Furthermore, it’s very likely that Yungeen Ace knew that this was exactly the right time to strike when it comes to making this pitch. This is because 50 Cent recently opened up a massive film and television studio lot in Shreveport, Louisiana, which will surely bring a lot of other amazing projects to life. While nothing is for certain in Hollywood, at least the Queens rapper has plenty of experience with successful media up to this point, such as the Power and BMF TV shows. We wonder whether he will continue to expand his resumé with other styles of narrative and thematic focuses or if he’s as down as ever to dive deeper into a specific MC.

Yungeen Ace Wants 50 Cent To Make A Movie About Him

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Of course, given some of Yungeen Ace’s tribulations, antics, and beefs in the rap game, a movie on his life would be pretty eventful to say the least. But it’s a good thing that there are actually less reasons for it to happen. For example, he seemingly squashed his beef with Foolio after his shooting, and this brought an end to their very public disputes, call-outs, and fighting words. After a lot of turmoil, it’s nice that what was once a movie for bad reasons can settle down and aim for something greater.

Meanwhile, Fif is happily commentating on pretty much any and everything in the rap game these days, such as Chris Brown’s beef with Quavo. Do you think he’ll respond to this request? Whatever the case may be, drop your takes in the comments section down below. Also, stay logged into HNHH for the latest news and more updates on 50 Cent and Yungeen Ace.

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Boosie Badazz Dresses Up For Bob Marley Movie In Rasta Hat & Dreadlock Wig

February 15, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Boosie Badazz is a big movie fan, as evidenced by his recent controversial rant about The Color Purple pushing an LGBTQIA2+ agenda. But a lot of that fandom doesn’t have to manifest in backlash-worthy ways like that. Sometimes, it can be as simple as your choice of outfit to go see a particular flick, and his drip for the Bob Marley: One Love biopic was certainly on-brand. Moreover, the Baton Rouge MC donned a Rastafarian hat and a dreadlock wig, in addition to a yellow sweatshirt and shoes, when he went to see the film with his daughter on Wednesday (February 14).

Furthermore, this was the same day that the Kingsley Ben-Adir-starring movie released, and this take on the iconic reggae legend has mixed reviews so far. While Boosie still hasn’t dropped his review and his take on the whole thing, maybe his infamy surrounding his takedown of The Color Purple will sadly deter him from speaking his mind on this new flick. He even claimed that folks bullied him over these bigoted takes, and while we can’t say folks are wrong to do so, it’s just discussion at the end of the day. Maybe the 41-year-old wants to turn a new leaf.

Boosie Dons The Rasta Get-Up For Bob Marley Biopic: Watch

After all, Boosie recently and shockingly argued that he’s not homophobic, which might sound odd considering some of his previous comments. “I just never agreed [with] what they was pushing on the younger generation, and I spoke on that,” he told Cam Newton. “And I spoke about a couple more situations that made a lot of people turn on me: the Dwyane Wade situation. But I have gays in my family. How can I hate a gay person? My assistant, who brings in millions of dollars to me, is gay. And I just got— I want that to get off my status. I’m not like that.”

Meanwhile, the Trill Entertainment affiliate also recently made headlines for his take on the Super Bowl halftime show. Whether it was Usher and Alicia Keys’ embrace or the fantasy of having R. Kelly perform, he had a lot to say about it. We’ll see what’s the next viral and bizarrely engaging pop culture crossover we get next from this creative. On that note, stay posted on HNHH for the latest news and updates on Boosie Badazz.

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Colman Domingo To Portray Famed Patriarch Joe Jackson: What We Know

January 29, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Colman Domingo has been revealed to be portraying Joe Jackson in the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic. So far, Domingo has been on a phenomenal run, and he seems to have only begun. In 2022, he secured an Emmy win for his sublime portrayal of the character Ali in HBO’s Euphoria. Similarly, his performance in the critically acclaimed musical drama, The Color Purple (2023) has earned him praise. Also from 2023, his breathtaking portrayal of Bayard Rustin in Rustin has now earned him his first-ever Oscar nomination. This makes him the first openly gay Black man to receive a nomination for portraying a gay character.

Now, he has been entrusted with bringing an important character to life in a potentially groundbreaking film. Evidently, the actor’s immense talent is finally being recognized and appreciated. After years of work, he is finally being brought to the fore in Hollywood. However, it will be a while before audiences get to see Colman Domingo portray Joe Jackson in Michael. That hasn’t stopped the Oscar predictions from come in. In the meantime, here’s what we know about the upcoming blockbuster film.

Announcement And Development Of The Film

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A post shared by Jaafar Jackson (@jaafarjackson)

While the movie is only now getting wild media buzz, it has actually been in development for a while. News of a potential biopic was first shared in November 2019, but it didn’t spread very far. Back then, it was announced that Oscar-nominated producer Graham King had secured the rights to produce an unnamed biopic about Michael Jackson. Additionally, it was revealed that Tony Award-winning writer John Logan would handle the screenplay.

Subsequently, in February 2022, the film’s distribution rights were officially acquired by Lionsgate. Principal photography was originally set to begin in mid-2023. However, it was unfortunately delayed for a while due to the then-ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. Following the end of the strike, a new date was set to begin principal photography. Subsequently, filming officially began on January 22, 2024.

Cast And Crew

colman domingo joe jackson — NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 14: Colman Domingo attends the AOL Build Speaker Series at AOL Studios In New York on March 14, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images)

The casting director for the film is Kimberly Hardin, and casting officially began in June 2022. So far, only three members of the cast have been announced. As aforementioned, Colman Domingo will be playing Joe Jackson, the famed patriarch of the Jackson family. In addition, Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s real-life nephew, is set to portray the King of Pop. This will be the 27-year-old’s acting debut, and many are eager to see how well he does. The third and final member of the cast who has been announced is Juliano Krue Valdi. He will be portraying a young Michael Jackson.

While we await other cast announcements, some members of the crew have also been revealed. The movie will be directed by Antoine Fuqua, and co-produced by Graham King, John Branca, and John McClain. Dion Beebe is billed to handle its cinematography, and Barbara Ling will be the production designer. Marci Rodgers is set to handle the costume design.

Release Date

As principal photography only just begun, it will take a while before the movie is ready for the big screen. However, it is already being heavily publicized. Moreover, it’s set to be a big production, with a budget over $100 million. Until then, fans are left to imagine how Colman Domingo will expertly take on Joe Jackson. Michael is scheduled to be released on April 18, 2025.

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Jonathan Majors Let Go From Dennis Rodman Biopic

January 15, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Jonathan Majors has been a fixture in the news cycle over the last few months. Overall, this is due to his assault case which ended with him being found guilty of misdemeanor assault in the third degree, as well as second-degree harassment. Subsequently, the actor was let go by Marvel. Although many had suspected this would happen, it was still news that sent shockwaves throughout the industry. It also led to some speculation about what would happen to Majors’ other upcoming projects.

For instance, it was reported months ago that Majors would be playing none other than Dennis Rodman. The movie 48 Hours In Vegas would star Majors and would explore the time Rodman left the Chicago Bulls to engage in debauchery. This is a storyline that was talked about in The Last Dance. It is one of those legendary NBA tales that would be perfect on the silver screen. However, according to Deadline, Majors has officially been let go from the project.

Jonathan Majors Loses Another Job

Furthermore, to make matters worse, Lionsgate will no longer aid in producing the film. This essentially means the filmmakers need to find a new studio. Additionally, they have to find a new actor to play Rodman. That is not going to be an easy task, even if there are a ton of actors who would love to have that role. Only time will tell whether or not the movie is going to get its due justice. As for Majors, this is yet another setback in what had been appearing to be a promising career.

Let us know what you think of this new decision, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the entertainment world. We will continue to keep you informed on upcoming films and the actors involved.

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