On this day in Hip Hop history, the cult classic comedy Friday soundtrack was released by 550 Music and Epic Records. The album peaked at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart, where it stood for two weeks, and #1 on the Top R&B/Hip Hop chart, where it stood for six weeks. The album was just as commercially successful as the film and was certified double platinum only two months later.
During the 90s, it seemed that every soundtrack was a hit and the Friday soundtrack followed suit. With tracks from Ice Cube, Scarface, Dr. Dre, Cypress Hill, and 2 Live Crew, the album stacked up to be an amazing compilation of original tracks and poppin’ radio singles. At the same time, the addition of a few throwbacks from The Isley Brothers, Bootsy Collins, and Rick James gave the album surprising depth and a sense of nostalgia. Dr. Dre’s original single for the film, “Keep Their Head Ringing,” was able to see great success due to this soundtrack. It ranked at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and #1 on the Hot Rap Tracks chart. It was certified gold by the RIAA in May 1995.
O’Shea Jackson Jr., the son of legendary rapper Ice Cube, has emerged as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, carving out his own legacy beyond the shadow of his iconic father. With a net worth of $3 million as of 2024, according to Celebrity Net Worth, O’Shea Jackson Jr. has captivated audiences with his acting talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft. From his breakout role in Straight Outta Compton to his forays into music and activism, O’Shea Jr. has navigated his career with finesse, earning acclaim and recognition along the way. In this article, we delve into the journey of O’Shea Jackson Jr., exploring his career milestones, contributions to various ventures, and the factors that have contributed to his impressive net worth.
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – MAY 18: O’Shea Jackson Jr. arrives at the premiere of Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures’ “Godzilla: King Of The Monsters” at TCL Chinese Theatre on May 18, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Morgan Lieberman/WireImage)
Born on February 24, 1991, in Los Angeles, California, O’Shea Jackson Jr. grew up surrounded by the world of hip-hop and acting. As the son of rap legend Ice Cube, he was exposed to the entertainment industry from a young age. Despite his father’s fame, O’Shea Jr. sought to make a name for himself through his own talents and hard work.
Acting Career
PASADENA, CA – FEBRUARY 05: Actor O’Shea Jackson Jr., winner of the Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Motion Picture award for ‘Straight Outta Compton’, poses in the press room during the 47th NAACP Image Awards presented by TV One at Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 5, 2016 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Imeh Akpanudosen/Getty Images for NAACP Image Awards)
O’Shea Jackson Jr. made his acting debut in the 2015 biographical film Straight Outta Compton, where he portrayed his father, Ice Cube. His remarkable performance earned him widespread acclaim and showcased his acting prowess. Moreover, the film’s success propelled O’Shea Jr. into the spotlight, opening doors to numerous opportunities in Hollywood.
Following his breakout role, O’Shea Jr. appeared in various films, including Ingrid Goes West (2017) and Den Of Thieves (2018). He showcased his versatility by taking on diverse characters and demonstrating his acting range. Each role contributed to his growing reputation as a talented actor in the industry.
In addition to his success on the big screen, O’Shea Jr. has also ventured into television. He appeared in the television series The Longshots and Hip Hop Squares, further expanding his presence in the entertainment world.
DENVER, CO – AUGUST 28: O’Shea Jackson Jr. performs “Straight Outta Compton” during Riot Fest at the National Western Complex on August 28, 2015 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images)
Beyond acting, O’Shea Jackson Jr. has diversified his portfolio through various ventures. He has expressed his passion for music and has been involved in the hip-hop scene, following in his father’s footsteps. While music hasn’t been his primary focus, O’Shea Jr. has demonstrated his skills as a rapper and has collaborated with other artists.
Moreover, O’Shea Jr. has leveraged his platform for philanthropic endeavors and social activism. He has been vocal about issues affecting his community and has used his influence to advocate for change. His commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond the realm of entertainment.
Conclusion
O’Shea Jackson Jr. has undoubtedly made a name for himself in Hollywood, separate from his father’s legacy. With his remarkable talent and dedication, he has established a thriving career in acting and other ventures. As of 2024, his net worth of $3 million reflects his success and the impact he has made in the entertainment industry. As he continues to pursue his passions and projects, O’Shea Jackson Jr. remains a force to be reckoned with, poised for even greater achievements in the years to come.
In conclusion, O’Shea Jackson Jr.’s journey to a $3 million net worth is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination. From his breakout role in Straight Outta Compton to his ventures in music and activism, he has cemented his place in Hollywood and beyond.
Caitlin Clark is positioned to be basketball’s first $5 million woman if she accepts the deal from the Big3 league, a 3-on-3 basketball league owned and operated by Ice Cube.
The iconic West Coast rapper turned business mogul and let the basketball world know he meant business when he spoke about the no-brainer offer to Caitlin Clark.
“Caitlin is a generational athlete who can achieve tremendous success in the BIG3,” he posted on X. He also pointed out that the Big3 had a track record of breaking down barriers with female coaches like Nancy Lieberman and Lisa Leslie.
“With our offer, Caitlin Clark can make history and break down even more barriers for women athletes,” Cube said.
Cube even weighed in on the Big3 being a better alternative to earn a living in the WNBA offseason rather than going overseas. “And they should have more than just one professional option in the US at a time when American pro sports leagues are being infiltrated by autocratic, anti-women regimes such as Qatar,” he said. “Our pathbreaking offer to Caitlin Clark demonstrates that BIG3 now offers another choice for athletes.”
Here’s what the deal basics look like based on sources to TMZ, who know the offer … $5 million to play eight regular-season games and possibly two playoff games! That’s it—10 games for $5 mil, guaranteed.
We’re told Clark would also get “substantial additional compensation” generated from merchandising and sponsorship revenue. What’s even more important is that Big3 would still allow Clark to play in the WNBA, and there would only be two games in scheduling conflict, so that looks like a win all around if she accepts Cube’s deal.
When you think of college basketball as a whole this year, Caitlin Clark is the name that immediately comes to mind. With her range unlimited both literally and figuratively, she is destined for greatness in the WNBA when she undoubtedly goes number one overall. For those wondering, the Indiana Fever hold that pick in the draft. The Iowa Hawkeye guard and her squad are in the midst of a quest to snatch the March Madness title. They are currently four games away, as they look to advance past the five-seeded Colorado Buffaloes in the Sweet 16 Saturday March 30. Everyone’s eyes are on Caitlin Clark, especially Ice Cube and the BIG3, according to TMZ Sports.
The competitive 3-on-3 basketball league has extended an outlandish offer to the all-time leading scorer in NCAA history. Cube is willing to pay Clark $5 million to play a possible 10 games after the NCAA tournament. However, she does not have to forfeit her WNBA dream either. Apparently, only two of the Indiana Fever’s game would interfere with the BIG3 schedule too. Cube expressed that he wanted to keep this a secret, but he is also so excited about this possibility as he sees this as a win-win for women in sports and the BIG3.
Ice Cube Thinks Caitlin Clark Would Transform Basketball Even Beyond The BIG3
We intended the offer to remain private while Caitlin Clark plays for the championship. But I won’t deny what’s now already out there: BIG3 made a historic offer to Caitlin Clark. Why wouldn’t we? Caitlin is a generational athlete who can achieve tremendous success in the BIG3. https://t.co/cwzHh7EVau
While this is a big deal on face value, what else makes this contract so massive for Caitlin? Well, the highest paid WNBA player last season was Erica Wheeler, making $242,000. There is a good chance she would earn more than that based on her talent. However, millions of dollars are most likely not going to happen unfortunately. Additionally, Clark would become the first female hooper in the BIG3. That alone could have a ripple effect for other talents at the collegiate or pro level. More is sure to come on this in the coming weeks, so stay tapped in with us going forward.
What are your thoughts on Caitlin Clark receiving $5 million to play in Ice Cube’s BIG3 basketball league? Should the Iowa Hawkeye star take the offer, why or why not? How much could this help future female athletes? Will they win the March Madness tournament? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Caitlin Clark, Ice Cube, and the BIG3. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on around the worlds of basketball and sports.
To say that Caitlin Clark might be the biggest star in women’s basketball at the moment feels like an understatement of the order of saying something like “the sun is very large and very hot.” Besides being inadequate to describe the phenomenon in question, it’s also horrendously obvious.
Case in point, Clark Fever (Mania?) is at such all-time highs, even men’s sports leagues want in on the action. Ice Cube, proprietor of the innovative BIG3 league, even offered Clark $5 million to play in the BIG3 this summer. According to TMZ, the deal would be for eight regular-season games and two possible playoff games, while still allowing her to play in the WNBA.
Cube explained providing the offer, saying, “Caitlin is a generational athlete who can achieve tremendous success in the BIG3. With our offer, Caitlin Clark can make history and break down even more barriers for women athletes.” He even got polictical, rightly pointing out that women “should have more than just one professional option in the US at a time when American pro sports leagues are being infiltrated by autocratic, anti-women regimes such as Qatar.” The specter of Brittney Griner’s recent ordeal looms large.
We intended the offer to remain private while Caitlin Clark plays for the championship. But I won’t deny what’s now already out there: BIG3 made a historic offer to Caitlin Clark. Why wouldn’t we? Caitlin is a generational athlete who can achieve tremendous success in the BIG3. https://t.co/cwzHh7EVau
While we’re sure that he’s making this offer in good faith (despite bypassing no small number of Clark’s fellow stars), it seems … unlikely that Clark would be able to play in BIG3 and WNBA at the same time, as their seasons greatly overlap. Intriguingly, though, only two BIG3 games overlap with games for the Indiana Fever, the team that seems most likely to land Clark in this season’s upcoming draft. The additional travel and game wear doesn’t eem like it’d be quite worth it, but hey, stranger things have happened in Indiana (ba-dum, tsss).
However, one place Cube’s statement is thankfully inaccurate is that there is more than one women’s basketball option for players opting out of overseas play. The Athletes Unlimited Pro Hoops league just concluded its third season this past weekend. So, if Clark wants to stay sharp, she certainly has at least one other option in 2025.
On the most recent episode of The Big Podcast, Shaquille O’neal and guest Mario Chalmers discussed Ice Cube’s up and coming Big3 basketball League.
Shaq asked Chalmers, “So you really think I could play in the Big3?” The podcast host and basketball HOFer replied, “I thought about it. I just had hip surgery, and I ain’t played since. I don’t think I could get back in that mode.”
Cube extended a personal invitation to join the league, saying to Shaq via X, “We got the contract ready for you big fella. You got 3 months to get [Diesel]. You can eat all day in @thebig3 @SHAQ.”
In 1998, The Players Club hit the screens, delivering a gritty and provocative portrayal of the strip club scene. Directed by Ice Cube, the film captivated audiences with its raw narrative. Moreover, it also introduced us to a talented crop of actors who brought the story to life. Over two decades later, the cast are still actively engaged in the industry. Let’s take a look at where the cast members of The Players Club are today.
LisaRaye McCoy (Diamond)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 06: LisaRaye McCoy attends the World Premiere of Warner Bros.’ “The Color Purple” at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on December 06, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Leon Bennett/Getty Images)
LisaRaye McCoy’s stellar portrayal of Diamond, a young woman navigating the challenges of working in a strip club, while pursuing her educational dreams, earned her critical acclaim. Besides acting, she is a model, entrepreneur, and fashion designer. Since The Players Club, McCoy has continued to make a name for herself in Hollywood. She has appeared in numerous films and series including All of Us, Holiday Heartbreak, Single Ladies, Lunar Lockdown, and The Family Business.She also hosted several television shows, including Cocktails with Queens, and Asking for a Friend.
While McCoy’s career was booming, her love life was not the same. She dated Kenji Pace in 1988, and had a daughter Kai Morae Pace with him. The two broke up in 1990. Two years later, she tied the knot with American football player Tony Martin, but their union came to an end in 1994. After this chapter of her life, McCoy embarked on a new journey in April 2006 when she married Michael Misick in a lavish ceremony. At the time, Misick held the prestigious position of Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, having been elected in 2003, while she held the title “First Lady of the Turks and Caicos.” However, in 2008, Misick announced the couple’s decision to part ways, marking the end of their marriage. Since then, McCoy has decided to focus on herself and her career.
NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 10: Bernie Mac appears on stage during MTV’s Total Request Live at the MTV Times Square Studios September 10, 2004 in New York City. (Photo by Scott Gries/Getty Images)
Bernie Mac’s memorable performance as Dollar Bill, the sleazy and manipulative club owner, showcased his comedic genius. Following The Players Club, Mac went on to achieve immense success with his eponymous sitcom The Bernie Mac Show, which earned him widespread recognition and accolades. He also starred in films such as Ocean’s Eleven, Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle, and Transformers.
Mac tied the knot with his high school sweetheart, Rhonda Gore in 1977 and the couple welcomed their daughter the next year. 2004 brought health challenges for Mac, as he had contracted pneumonia which affected both his lungs and was experiencing severe exhaustion. Tragically, Bernie Mac passed away in 2008 at the age of 50, from the complications of sarcoidosis. He left behind a legacy of laughter and remarkable talent.
attends the premiere of ‘The Best Man Holiday’ on November 5, 2013 at TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, California.
Monica Calhoun who played Ebony, Diamond’s loyal and protective cousin, left a lasting impression on audiences. Since her role as Ebony, Calhoun has continued to act in both film and television. She has appeared in projects such as The Best Man franchise, Diary of a Single Mom, Love & Basketball, and Bagdad Café. Cahoun’s versatility as an actress has solidified her status as a respected figure in the entertainment industry. Calhoun gave birth to her son in 2000 and soon discovered that he was blind. She decided to make her son’s life and comfort as an individual with special needs, her top priority. As a result, Calhoun often goes on long hiatuses to care for him. Despite this, she has remained a formidable presence in the entertainment industry.
Blue, the charming and charismatic DJ at the club, was portrayed by Jamie Foxx. Since The Players Club, Jamie Foxx’s acting career has skyrocketed, leading to iconic roles in films like Ray, for which he won an Academy Award. Other notable projects he’s starred in include: Collateral, Django Unchained, and Just Mercy. In addition to his success in film, Foxx has also enjoyed a thriving music career. He has released several albums, including! Peep This, Intuition, and Best Night of My Life.
Foxx is a father to two daughters: Corrine Foxx born in 1994, and the other born in 2009. Corrine is not only a model but also an actress and television producer. In 2021, Foxx penned his autobiography titled Act Like You Got Some Sense. In 2023, after health challenges, Foxx bounced back to acting and performing.
Ice Cube not only made his directorial debut with The Players Club but also had a memorable cameo as Reggie, a henchman. Since then, he has starred in and produced numerous movies. Ice Cube is a multi-talented icon, and has continued to excel in various facets of entertainment. He has been successful as an actor, rapper, producer, and entrepreneur. Moreover, his contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified his status as a cultural legend. As a result, he remains a prominent figure in Hollywood. Ice Cube married Kimberly Woodruff in 1992 and the couple share five children. His son, O’Shea Jackson Jr., has since made Ice Cube a proud grandfather. Also, in 2017, Ice Cube founded Big3, a 3-on-3 basketball league featuring former NBA players
A. J. Johnson (Lil Man)
Taking on the role of Lil Man, the club’s doorman who is constantly teased for his height, A. J. Johnson shone in The Players Club. The actor and comedian continued to be involved in the entertainment industry for many years. He appeared in films and television series such as I Got the Hookup, and Undercover Princesses. Johnson was married to Lexis Jones Mason and the couple had three daughters. Sadly, Johnson passed away in 2021, at the age of 55, due to chronic alcohol use.
From his early days as a member of the pioneering rap group NWA to his successful acting and producing career, Ice Cube has built an impressive empire. But, what is his net worth in 2024? Let’s dive into the various aspects of his career that have contributed to his massive fortune.
The net worth of Ice Cube is estimated to be around $160 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Ice Cube: A Pioneering Rap Career
(Photo by Pool ARNAL/GARCIA/PICOT/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)
His career began as a member of NWA, which was formed in the mid-1980s. The group is credited with popularizing gangsta rap, and their debut album, Straight Outta Compton, remains a classic. Ice Cube was a key player in writing the lyrics for many of their songs, and his contributions significantly impacted the group’s success.
After leaving NWA, Cube embarked on a successful solo career. His debut album, AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted, was released in 1990 and was a commercial and critical success. Over the years, he has released several more albums, with many of them achieving gold or platinum status. Ice Cube’s music career has played a significant role in building his net worth.
A Thriving Acting and Producing Career
(Photo by Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)
Ice Cube made his acting debut in 1991 with Boyz n the Hood. His performance as Doughboy was widely praised, and this opened the doors for more acting opportunities. Cube went on to star in several successful film franchises, such as Friday, Barbershop, and Are We There Yet? These box office successes contributed to his ever-growing fortune.
In addition to his acting career, Ice Cube has also found success as a film producer. He co-founded Cube Vision, a production company responsible for movies like Straight Outta Compton and Ride Along. As a producer, Cube has been able to leverage his industry knowledge and connections to create profitable projects, further increasing his net worth.
Business Ventures And Endorsements
(Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images for BIG3)
Ice Cube’s entrepreneurial spirit is another factor contributing to his wealth. He co-founded the BIG3, a professional 3-on-3 basketball league featuring former NBA players. The league has attracted significant attention and lucrative sponsorship deals since its inception in 2017.
Moreover, Cube has been involved in various endorsement deals throughout his career. He has collaborated with companies like Coors Light and St. Ides, lending his image and voice to their advertising campaigns. These partnerships have provided additional income streams, bolstering his net worth.
Ice Cube: Real Estate Investments
(Photo by Dave Simpson/WireImage)
Like many celebrities, Ice Cube has invested in real estate to grow his wealth. Over the years, he has purchased several properties, including a $7.25 million mansion in the prestigious area of Marinda Del Rey, California. These real estate investments have undoubtedly contributed to his net worth.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
(Photo by Michael Bezjian/Getty Images for Black Santa/BIG3)
Despite his significant wealth, Ice Cube has not forgotten the importance of giving back to his community. He has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, such as providing scholarships and supporting youth programs in underprivileged areas. While these efforts may not directly contribute to his net worth, they demonstrate his commitment to using his success for the greater good.
Conclusion/TLDR
In conclusion, Cube’s net worth of $160 million in 2024 is a testament to his diverse and successful career. From his pioneering rap beginnings to his thriving acting and producing career, as well as his entrepreneurial ventures and real estate investments, Ice Cube has built an impressive fortune that continues to grow.
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Ice Cube, the iconic artist, actor, and co-founder of the BIG3 basketball league, reached another pinnacle in his illustrious career as he was honored with the esteemed Naismith Hall of Fame Award. This recognition, known as The Naismith Hall of Fame Ice Cube Impact Award, celebrates Cube’s significant contributions to professional basketball and his dedication to community service.
The newly introduced Naismith Award, named in Cube’s honor, will be an annual accolade presented to individuals in the basketball community who have made exceptional contributions to the sport and have positively impacted their communities. Cube will personally chair the selection committee for future award nominations.
The celebration included unveiling the Ice Cube Impact Award Exhibit, showcasing a collection of photographs capturing Cube’s life, from his youth basketball days to iconic moments with NWA and Kobe Bryant. A video featuring Cube discussing his journey and the award’s significance added depth to the exhibit.
“I am so honored; when you have an award in the hall of fame, people have to take you seriously; it gives you a certain level of credibility,” he continues. “I am looking forward to finding finalists who do good work across the country that positively impact the lives of others through basketball, famous or not.”
“The Hall of Fame team enjoyed meeting and honoring Ice Cube as we welcomed him to the Hall of Fame family. We look forward to utilizing Cube’s platform in both entertainment and basketball to discover and celebrate people in challenged communities nationally who are using basketball as a lever to improve their neighborhoods, and more importantly, help guide young people by reinforcing positive life skills through their love of the game,” adds John Doleva, President/CEO of Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
Before the Hall of Fame ceremony, Cube received a warm welcome from CEO/President John Doleva and enjoyed a two-day celebration, including a tour of the recently renovated Hall of Fame and a visit to the Kobe Bryant exhibit.
Engaging with the Springfield community, Cube, and BIG3 Coach Nancy Lieberman participated in a basketball clinic for local children. The center court at Hoop Hall buzzed with excitement as Cube emphasized the importance of practice. Cube also visited Deberry Elementary School, offering an inspirational talk to the students.
The pinnacle of the celebration was Cube awarding the MVP at the 2024 Spalding Hoophall Classic game, a testament to his enduring legacy in basketball, entertainment, and community engagement. Alongside this honor, as a member of NWA, Cube will also receive a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
There are not many rappers that have a legacy as big as Ice Cube. The 54-year-old legend has made contributions to several industries outside of music. You can find him in movies, commercials, and within the expansive circles of basketball. Cube did an incredible thing by creating the BIG 3 league which features NBA stars of the past who still have a passion for playing in an organized fashion. Because of this, the California MC received an award from the NBA and its storied Hall Of Fame.
According to HipHopDX, this award was in the works for a couple of months. Now, Cube was finally rewarded for his “extraordinary contributions to the world of basketball [and] his unparalleled passion for the game.” Ice Cube posted to Instagram to acknowledge this pivotal moment. “Had a remarkable time at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame today. So honored to see the trophy and exhibit for The Ice Cube Impact Award.”
He continued, “Can’t wait to reward people in the future who positively impact us through the game of basketball. Thank you @hoophall.” Furthermore, the President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, John L. Doleva, thanked Cube for everything. “Ice Cube’s unquestionable passion for the game and his desire to see it utilized as a catalyst for positive impact on communities is unwavering. His sphere of influence in both the entertainment industry and in the professional sports arena brings remarkable authenticity and value to this award.”
What are your thoughts on the Ice Cube Impact Award? Does this do anything for the rapper’s legacy? Who could you see winning this award in the future and why? Where do you rank Ice Cube all time? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Ice Cube and the NBA. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on around the music and sports world.
