Snoop Dogg, a prominent figure in the music industry, particularly in hip-hop, launched his rap career in the early 1990s. The hip-hop genre boasts numerous influential artists, and the film industry has produced several movies centered around various musical talents. In 2015, the movie “Straight Outta Compton” gained attention, depicting the story of the iconic hip-hop group N.W.A.
Produced by Ice Cube, the film featured a cast chosen to embody its characters. Ice Cube’s character was portrayed by his son, O’Shea Jackson Jr. Notably, when it came to casting the role of Snoop Dogg, the casting directors approached a legendary artist. Unfortunately, he declined the offer.
Nipsey Hussle, born Ermias Joseph Asghedom, was considered for the role of Snoop Dogg in the movie. Despite efforts from legends like Ice Cube and Dr. Dre to connect with Nipsey, they sought assistance from Snoop. However, when Snoop approached Nipsey and proposed that he take on the role in the film, Nipsey declined the offer.
During his appearance on the 85 South Show Snoop explained, “They was doing Straight Outta Compton movie right? So Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, all them ni**as calling me, Man, we trying to get Nip to play you in Straight Outta Compton! He ain’t getting back to us!’ [I said] ‘Aight, let me holla at the lil homie.” He added, “I hit him up, Nip, lemme holla at you! Pull up on me!’ He come over to the spot. ‘Cuh, they want you to play me in the Straight Outta Compton movie!’ I’m happy as f**k to tell him.”
However, when Snoop approached Nipsey, the Mailbox Money rapper declined the offer politely, which also made Snoop respect him even more. Snoop said, “He like, ‘No disrespect big homie, but I can’t play you in the movie ’cause then people just gon’ know me for being you. I gotta be me. All that’s with all due respect.’ And I was like damn that was gangsta. I [called Dre and Cube back and] said, ‘Y’all gotta go find somebody else!”
Tragically, the emerging legend Nipsey Hussle was assassinated on March 31, 2019, outside his hometown of Los Angeles. Subsequently, Snoop’s role was offered to Lakeith Stanfield, an Academy Award nominee, who successfully portrayed the character, earning him significant acclaim. The film, with a reported budget ranging from $20 to $50 million, surpassed expectations by grossing over $200 million at the box office.