Cube and O’Shea Jackson Jr. discuss Jackson Jr.’s cinematic debut, and what new projects are on the horizon for father and son.
O’Shea Jackson Jr. was determined to play his father, Ice Cube, in Straight Outta Compton. Not only does the 24-year-old look uncannily like his dad, but he’s also got the rapper-turned-movie star’s mannerisms and expressions down — something he used to his advantage during the two-year audition process.
Jackson Jr. makes his acting debut in Straight Outta Compton, opening Aug. 14. The film captures the rise and rupture of N.W.A, the group credited with starting gangster rap and inspiring warning labels on album covers for its provocative, incendiary lyrics. Founding members Ice Cube and Dr. Dre are among the film’s producers.
Father and son sat side by side to talk with The Associated Press about bringing Ice Cube to life on-screen.
