KiD CuDi has always been one of the most rebellious and progressive figures in hip-hop’s new generation, and now he’s pushing the boundaries even farther with the revelation that he had a same-sex kiss in the upcoming film, James White.
James White is described as “a hard-hitting drama that takes an unflinchingly close-up look at a 20-something New Yorker enduring his father’s death, his mother’s cancer and deep personal demons.”
The James Mond-directed James White premiered at Sundance film festival on Jan. 23, and in the film CuDi plays the gay best friend of the movie’s heterosexual lead, played by actor Christopher Abbot.
“This was way different than anything else I’ve ever done,” CuDi said while chatting with Billboard about the role. “It was dope to do that. I felt like I had a responsibility to present a different walk in life from that world.”
Although CuDi’s character isn’t what Hollywood would consider a stereotypical gay character, he shares that he filmed a scene about his character coming out as gay.
“When he comes out of the closet, it’s not really a thing,” CuDi explained. “I think that’s something the world needs to see. ‘Cause it’s not a thing. We’re all equal.”
CuDi also revealed that he filmed several kissing scenes with co-star David Call, but the scenes didn’t make it into the final edit of the film.
“I’m mad [Mond] cut out my kissing scenes with David,” Cudi said during an audience Q-and-A session after the film. “We made out so many times — and it was so good! That’s my only gripe.”
Although many rappers might’ve declined having to kiss someone of the same sex on camera, CuDi explained that he’s more concerned about being a great artist and actor than anyone’s opinion about his sexuality.
“No. My thing is what story are we trying to tell here,” CuDi said. “I didn’t flinch. I’m secure with mine. I’m an artist 0151 it’s all about playing characters that are intriguing and stimulating.”
This isn’t the first time CuDi has flexed his ally muscles. Last year, he posed for a NOH8 campaign photo, and earlier this year he blasted a fan on Twitter for tweeting him a homophobic message.
Now, if only the rest of the hip-hop community was as secure and progressive as CuDi.
