Tupac Shakur left behind a reputation for being one of the most intriguing rappers who ever lived as well as respect for his ability to be a believable actor. One of his most memorable roles was in the 1992 film, Juice.
In Juice, Shakur starred as “Bishop,” one of the members of “The Wrecking Crew,” who turns violent in his quest for juice, or respect. He starred alongside actor Omar Epps (“Q”) in the film.
Now, tattooed rapper Soulja Boy is indicating that he will take on the role in a remake of the urban classic. He recently told Vibe magazine that he’s on par to play Bishop and released a new mixtape on April 20 that he says will be the remake’s soundtrack.
Soulja Boy has been criticized throughout his career for the “damage he’s done to hip-hop” with his questionable lyricism. This move could open him up to more of the same in the department of acting. Tinkering with a classic is a surefire way to evoke criticism.
In his Vibe interview, Soulja Boy also said that some of the original cast members, including rapper Cam’Ron, have reached out to be part of the remake.
Does Soulja Boy have the juice to pull it off?
Here’s a list of other rappers-turned-actors. Pick your favorite and the worst:
Eminem
T.I.
Ludacris
Tyrese
Common
LL Cool J
Mos Def
Queen Latifah
Marky Mark
Will Smith
Andre 3000
Xzibit
Ice-T
Ice Cube
Snoop Dogg
Method Man
Big Boi
DMX
50 Cent