Vin Diesel has a commanding presence in the world of action cinema. He further has established himself as a leading figure in Hollywood. Diesel is also known for his roles in blockbuster franchises and his contributions as a producer. High-octane performances and a keen business acumen characterize his career. As of 2023, his successful endeavors in film acting and production have resulted in a net worth of $225 million, according to ClutchPoints, underscoring his status as a major influence in the entertainment industry.
Career Highlights: A Force In Action Cinema
Vin Diesel and Paul Walker in a scene from the film ‘The Fast And The Furious’, 2001. (Photo by Universal/Getty Images)
Vin Diesel’s rise to fame was propelled by his breakthrough role in The Fast and the Furious franchise. There, he also portrayed the iconic character Dominic Toretto. This role catapulted him into the limelight and established him as a staple in action cinema. Diesel’s performances in xXx, The Chronicles of Riddick, and Guardians of the Galaxy further showcased his versatility as an actor. He is capable of leading both intense action sequences and contributing to ensemble casts in diverse genres.
In addition to his acting career, Diesel has been instrumental in shaping the creative direction of several films as a producer. His production company, One Race Films, has been involved in developing projects that resonate with his vision for storytelling in cinema. Diesel’s role as a producer reflects his understanding of the industry’s dynamic. It also showcases his ability to create content that appeals to a global audience.
Personal Life & Public Image
MIAMI, FLORIDA – JANUARY 31: (L-R) Offset, Vin Diesel, Nathalie Emmanuel, Michelle Rodriguez, Cardi B, Jordana Brewster, and Tyrese Gibson. Attend Universal Pictures Presents The Road To F9 Concert and Trailer Drop on January 31, 2020 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Universal Pictures)
Off-screen, Vin Diesel is known for his dedication to family values, often reflected in the themes of his films. His off-camera persona, combining a tough exterior with a deep sense of loyalty and kindness, has endeared him to fans worldwide. Diesel has also committed to maintaining privacy about his personal life. Although, he does also share moments of his life through social media. It further adds to his appeal as a relatable and admired public figure.
Legacy & Impact: Vin Diesel’s Influence In Hollywood
PARIS, FRANCE – APRIL 22: (Left to Right) Vin Diesel, Pom Klementieff, Director James Gunn, Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, and Karen Gillan attend the European Gala Event of Marvel Studios’ “Guardians of the Galaxy. Vol 3” at Disneyland Paris on April 22, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Kristy Sparow/Getty Images For Disney)
Reflecting on Vin Diesel’s $225 million net worth in 2023, his career in Hollywood is marked by a blend of box office success and a keen sense for film production. His influence in the action genre and his ability to helm successful franchises highlight his standing as a powerful force in the entertainment industry. Diesel’s journey in cinema is a testament to the impact of charismatic leadership on-screen and strategic vision off-screen.
Asta Jonasson, Vin Diesel’s former assistant, is reportedly suing the actor for sexual battery. Jonasson claims while serving as Diesel’s personal assistant on Fast Five, she was sexually assaulted by the actor in a Georgia hotel room. According to Johnson’s suit, she was present for a hotel suite party in which Diesel was entertaining a number of women. However, after the last woman left, Diesel reportedly assaulted Jonasson. The assault allegedly happened when she tried to get Diesel to discreetly leave the hotel.
According to Jonasson, Diesel forcibly grabbed her and kissed her without consent while also allegedly groping her breast. Johnson’s suit goes on to allege that Diesel lifted up her dress and attempted to pull down her underwear while pinning her against a wall and placing her hand on his erection. Diesel then reportedly masturbated on her before leaving. Hours after the alleged assault, Jonasson said she received a call from Diesel’s sister. Samantha Vincent also serves as the president of his production company. During that call, Jonasson was abruptly fired from her job, which she alleges was due to her resistance to Diesel’s assault. Diesel is yet to respond to the allegations.
The news about Vin Diesel broke the same day that another sex-related scandal went viral. A sex tape seemingly involving Beyoncé’s nephew Julez Smith and actress Skai Jackson was leaked earlier this week. It is unclear who originally released the video, but many of Beyoncé’s fans have taken to blaming Smith for “embarrassing” his famous family. “Beyonce kick this boy out the Knowles family embarrassing Royalty like that. Julez Smith gtfoh the internet with this. You too rich. Solonge get ya child,” one fan wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
However, neither Smith’s nor Jackson’s identity has been confirmed at this time. Neither party has addressed the video at the time of writing. Furthermore, with deep fake technology becoming more and more sophisticated, it cannot be objectively stated at this time that the video does feature Smith and Jackson. This remains a developing story and we’ll have any updates as and when they emerge.
The talent pool in Hollywood is truly diverse, and as a result, many actors have dabbled in music. Many celebrities stick their feet in multiple ventures to capitalize on their fame. However, success in one industry isn’t always a guarantee that you’ll be welcomed in another. As such, many actors in Hollywood have had failed music careers. Unfortunately, not everyone can replicate the successes of say, Miley Cyrus or Idris Elba. Additionally, it’s become increasingly evident that the transition from musician to actor is much more bankable than the opposite. In any case, here are seven stars who tried (and failed) to successfully segue into music.
Vin Diesel
The Fast & Furious frontman is one of the highest-grossing actors in Hollywood. However, before becoming one of the most profitable actors, he briefly dabbled in music. In a 2021 interview on The Kelly Clarkson Show, he shared that he attempted to transition into rap from breakdancing in the mid-’80s. During his brief rap stint, he went by the name Mark Sinclair. Furthermore, Diesel (Sinclair at the time) collaborated with avant-garde composer Arthur Russel and attempted to create a rap song. An audio recording of their studio session surfaced on SoundCloud in 2011. After listening, it became evident to fans of the actor why he chose not to continue chasing a career in Hip Hop.
Tyra Banks
Tyra Banks needs no introduction. Whether from her immensely successful modeling career or her appearances in film and TV, she is a highly recognizable figure. However, not many people know that she briefly dipped a toe in musical waters back in the day. The supermodel released an R&B-dance single in 2004 titled “Shake Ya Body.” The song was very energetic, and its music video featured contestants from America’s Next Top Model. However, unfortunately for the TV personality, it didn’t stick with listeners and had a poor commercial performance.
Brie Larson
Before becoming one of the most noticeable actors in Hollywood, Brie Larson tried her hand at a music career. The A-list star and Academy Award winner was signed to Casablanca Records in 2003. In 2005, at 16, Larson released her debut and sole studio album, Finally Out of P.E. It was a 13-track pop-rock project, and unfortunately, it didn’t perform very well commercially. She never released any songs or albums after Finally Out of P.E. However, she worked as a DJ for a while before her acting career finally took off.
Tom Hardy
Earlier in his career, the Venom actor used to want to spit bars. Hardy aspired to be a rapper, and for a little while, he went by the moniker “Tommy No 1.” He spoke to BBC Newsbeat in 2011 about his unrealized career as a rapper. During the interview, Hardy shared that he started rapping at 14 or 15 and even had a record deal. “I used to be with the guy who managed Lela James and Lauryn Hill, Pras, The Fugees and all that,” he said.
However, the Mad Max actor never actualized his dream of becoming a rapper. Although he had recorded “loads of stuff,” he never put them out because, as he said, “I come from a nice, middle-class neighborhood in East Sheen, so it was a very hard sell. And, you know, I wasn’t very good.” An 18-track mixtape by Mr. Hardy was posted on Bandcamp in 2018 by producer Edward Tracy.
Mahershala Ali
Oscar-winning actor Mahershala Ali is certainly a man of many talents. Unknown to many, he was signed to a record label in the early 2000s before he achieved movie star status. Evidently, he must have shown some promise to bag a record deal in the harsh climes of the music industry. Going by the name Prince Ali, he released his debut album, Corner Ensemble, in 2006. In 2007, he followed it up with his sophomore album, Curb Side Service.
Unfortunately, neither of the two albums did well by industry standards. However, unlike many other actors, Ali’s time in the music scene wasn’t all bad, and his talents were evident. Overall, it can be argued that his music career never took off because he chose to focus on his acting career instead. Although he hasn’t released any solo songs or albums since then, Prince Ali has appeared on a few albums, including Keith Murray’s Lord of the Metaphor 2 (2019) and Ari’s Ahmed’s The Long Goodbye (2020).
Jada Pinkett Smith
Jada Pinkett Smith formed the nu metal band Wicked Wisdom in 2002 and has been their frontwoman ever since. Between 2002 and 2006, the band released two studio albums and went on several tours. However, they were never really welcomed with open arms by many metalheads. Unfortunately, this reality stunted their growth as a band, and by 2006, they went on an indefinite hiatus. Although Wicked Wisdom reunited in 2021, the band is still very much under the radar. Jada Pinkett Smith’s success as an actor is in no way comparable to that of her music career.
Naomi Campbell
In 1994, Naomi Campbell, already a supermodel, tried gliding into the music scene with Baby Woman. The 11-track R&B album received mixed reviews upon its release and performed quite terribly commercially. Unfortunately, the world did not amicably welcome Campbell’s attempt to diversify. Although it was popular in Japan, Baby Woman flopped just about everywhere else. Besides a 1996 feature on Toshinobu Kubota’s “La La La Love Song,” the supermodel hasn’t revisited the music scene since.
Last Friday, French Montana delighted clubgoers with an unexpected performance at LIV, showcasing his chart-topping hits like “Unforgettable” and “No Stylist.” Additionally, Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior was seen enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the nightclub over the weekend.
French Montana and Vinícius Júnior
French Montana and Vinícius Júnior
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Before his Miami trip, French Montana’s highly anticipated documentary, FOR KHADIJA, made a resounding impact as it premiered Friday night at the Tribeca Film Festival, drawing a star-studded crowd to New York City’s iconic Beacon Theatre. The Moroccan-born artist, hailing from the South Bronx, received overwhelming support from the city that shaped him.
The event was a star-studded affair, with luminaries such as Sean “Diddy” Combs, Swae Lee, Vin Diesel, Chazz Palminteri, Busta Rhymes, Jim Jones, and even New York City Mayor Eric Adams gracing the occasion. The atmosphere was exciting as the audience eagerly awaited the film’s unveiling.
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To kick off the premiere, the crowd was treated to an introduction by none other than the charismatic Executive Producer, Sean “Diddy” Combs, and Director Mandon Lovett. The screening itself left a lasting impression, garnering enthusiastic praise from those in attendance. The film shed light on French Montana’s remarkable journey, paying homage to his mother, Khadija, who was present with the rest of his family at the event.
FOR KHADIJA delves into the unlikely ascent of French Montana, highlighting the struggles faced by his single mother as she raised three young sons in the Bronx, enduring abandonment and destitution. It also explores Montana’s personal battles with immigration and family separation. In a remarkable display of dedication, the artist released a call to action in partnership with Informed Immigrant, urging the public to support undocumented individuals and families by providing essential resources, including legal aid and mental health support.
The night concluded with an exhilarating performance by the Triplets Ghetto Kids, who took the stage to deliver an electrifying rendition of Montana’s track, “Famous.” Joining forces with French and the kids, Swae Lee brought the house down with their diamond-certified hit, “Unforgettable,” as the crowd erupted in cheers and applause.
French Montana’s documentary premiere was a testament to his resilience and determination, leaving an indelible mark on all who witnessed his remarkable story. Through FOR KHADIJA, the artist has shared his personal struggles and used his platform to champion the cause of those facing similar challenges, ensuring they receive the support they desperately need.
French Montana’s highly anticipated documentary, FOR KHADIJA, made a resounding impact as it premiered Friday night at the Tribeca Film Festival, drawing a star-studded crowd to New York City’s iconic Beacon Theatre. The Moroccan-born artist, hailing from the South Bronx, received overwhelming support from the city that shaped him.
The event was a star-studded affair, with luminaries such as Sean “Diddy” Combs, Swae Lee, Vin Diesel, Chazz Palminteri, Busta Rhymes, Jim Jones, and even New York City Mayor Eric Adams gracing the occasion. The atmosphere was exciting as the audience eagerly awaited the film’s unveiling.
unnamed 4
To kick off the premiere, the crowd was treated to an introduction by none other than the charismatic Executive Producer, Sean “Diddy” Combs, and Director Mandon Lovett. The screening itself left a lasting impression, garnering enthusiastic praise from those in attendance. The film shed light on French Montana’s remarkable journey, paying homage to his mother, Khadija, who was present with the rest of his family at the event.
FOR KHADIJA delves into the unlikely ascent of French Montana, highlighting the struggles faced by his single mother as she raised three young sons in the Bronx, enduring abandonment and destitution. It also explores Montana’s personal battles with immigration and family separation. In a remarkable display of dedication, the artist released a call to action in partnership with Informed Immigrant, urging the public to support undocumented individuals and families by providing essential resources, including legal aid and mental health support.
The night concluded with an exhilarating performance by the Triplets Ghetto Kids, who took the stage to deliver an electrifying rendition of Montana’s track, “Famous.” Joining forces with French and the kids, Swae Lee brought the house down with their diamond-certified hit, “Unforgettable,” as the crowd erupted in cheers and applause.
French Montana’s documentary premiere was a testament to his resilience and determination, leaving an indelible mark on all who witnessed his remarkable story. Through FOR KHADIJA, the artist has shared his personal struggles and used his platform to champion the cause of those facing similar challenges, ensuring they receive the support they desperately need.
French Montana was born Karim Kharbouch. Growing up in Morocco in the late 1980s, he idolized soccer and rap music. Then, out of nowhere, he found himself in the South Bronx. He would not find his breakout until the mid-2000s, with “Choppa Choppa Down” and Excuse My French. His journey from undocumented immigrant to worldwide star is one of hardship and grit. Recently, Montana announced that he would be partnering with a charity that helps provide information about pursuing citizenship for undocumented immigrants.
Today, Montana is one of the best-known rappers and the highest-streamed African-born artist of all time. He is also a two-time platinum recording artist. However, he is also best known for his encounters with law enforcement and criminal involvements. Montana’s story was turned into a tell-all documentary, executive produced by Drake and Diddy. Furthermore, it was revealed that the documentary would be premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, thanks to Roberto De Niro.
For Khadija premiered on June 16. In attendance was a whole host of celebrities from the music and film world. Aside from premiere host Robert De Niro, actor Chazz Palminteri was also in attendance. Like Montana, Paminteri grew up in the Bronx. Also representing New York was Major Eric Adams, who posed for photos with Montana and others. Adams was elected in 2021 and has had a contentious relationship with the music scene. Last year, Adams announced plans to attempt to ban drill music. Fast & Furious star Vin Diesel was also in attendance.
From the music world, there were many major names in the audience. Diddy, who helped executive produce the documentary, was in attendance. His co-executive producer, Drake, was also in the audience. Furthermore, Swae Lee, Busta Rhymes, and Jim Jones also attended. It’s unknown when For Khadija will be getting a wider release. However, we’ll have any updates on its release. Follow HotNewHipHop for all the latest music and entertainment news.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is fully diving back into the world of Luke Hobbs and Fast & Furious.
Ahead of the release of Fast X, The Wrap revealed that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson would return to the series, reversing his previous desire to stay away.
Johnson did just that, appearing in a post-credit scene as Luke Hobbs. Now, Deadline reveals the Hobbs character will receive another standalone movie.
“Last summer Vin and I put all the past behind us,” The Rock said. “We’ll lead with brotherhood and resolve – and always take care of the franchise, characters & FANS that we love.”
Hope you’ve got your funderwear on…
HOBBS IS BACK. And he just got lei’d
Luke Hobbs will be returning to the Fast & Furious franchise.
Your reactions around the world to Hobbs’ return in Fast X have blown us away
In November 2021, series star Vin Diesel hit Instagram, begging The Rock to return to the franchise. At the time, The Rock responded: “I was firm yet cordial with my words and said that I would always be supportive of the cast and always root for the franchise to be successful, but that there was no chance I would return.”
He added, “Vin’s recent public post was an example of his manipulation.”
Industry insiders believe The Rock rejoining the franchise halts a cold streak that included Red Notice, Skyscraper, and more.
Fast X is currently furiously running up the millions at the global box office. But some movie watchers are asking why this is still going on. Ludacris gave a simple answer; we are rolling in billions of dollars.
Speaking on All The Smoke, Ludacris revealed why the question of “why another Fast movie” is “the dumbest fucking question in the world.
“No matter what industry we in, podcasts, music, movies, it’s all about a bottom line,” Luda said. “It’s about how much you spend compared to how much you make. We’re making billions of fucking dollars, and I’m just giving you my heart I’m not trying to brag or nothing.”
He added, “if you spend 200 million and you make a billion, who the fuck is you gonna tell to stop shooting movies when you’re making 800 million dollars?
Fast & Furious will never die. With one of the final (?) chapters of the Fast Franchise in theaters, Vin Diesel has revealed a spin-off series is in development. Speaking with Variety, Vin Diesel said he will dive into new stories once he wraps the original.
“I started developing the female spinoff…in 2017 with other spinoffs, and the sooner I deliver the finale, the sooner I can launch all the projects,” Diesel said.
With a woman-led spinoff in the works, Diesel’s co-star Michelle Rodrigez, who plays Letty, isn’t sure about returning for it. “You pass the baton on. You take the back seat,” she said. “You go passenger side. When it comes the next generation, you have to. It’s the only way to let them define the future.”
Fast X raced into box offices this past weekend behind an impressive $67.5 million opening weekend in America, replacing Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy 3 at the top spot.
The film also marked the return of one of the series’ biggest stars. More on that here.
Fast & Furious will never die. With one of the final (?) chapters of the Fast Franchise in theaters, Vin Diesel has revealed a spin-off series is in development. Speaking with Variety, Vin Diesel detailed that he will dive into new stories once he wraps the original.
“I started developing the female spinoff…in 2017 with other spinoffs, and the sooner I deliver the finale, the sooner I can launch all the projects,” Diesel said.
With a woman-led spinoff in the works, Diesel’s co-star Michelle Rodrigez, who plays Letty, isn’t sure about returning for it. “You pass the baton on. You take the back seat,” she said. “You go passenger side. When it comes the next generation, you have to. It’s the only way to let them define the future.”
Fast X raced into box offices this past weekend behind an impressive $67.5 million opening weekend in America, replacing Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy 3 at the top spot.
The film also marked the return of one of the series’ biggest stars. More on that here.
A new edition of Fast & Furious is getting ready to skkkrrrrrrttt into theaters as Fast X will make its debut this weekend. Early projections eye the movie as a big box-office success.
According to Deadline, Fast X is already off to a speedy start, bringing in $235 million overseas and an additional $60 million stateside. The nearly $300 million total would be the third-best global start, following Fate of the Furious at $541.9 million and Furious 7 at $397.6 million.
Earlier this week, Fast X was revealed to have even more star power. According to The Wrap, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will make his return to the series, reversing his previous desire to stay away.
Johnson is set to reprise the role of Luke Hobbs, appearing in a post-credit scene of the forthcoming film.
In November 2021, series star Vin Diesel hit Instagram, begging The Rock to return to the franchise. At the time, The Rock responded: “I was firm yet cordial with my words and said that I would always be supportive of the cast and always root for the franchise to be successful, but that there was no chance I would return.”
He added, “Vin’s recent public post was an example of his manipulation.”
Industry insiders believe The Rock rejoining the franchise halts a cold streak that included Red Notice, Skyscraper, and more.
The Fast X cast includes Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Jason Momoa, Nathalie Emmanuel, John Cena, Charlize Theron, Helen Mirren, Brie Larson, and Rita Moreno. The movie hits theaters this weekend.
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