Cynthia Erivo is stepping into the world of hip-hop history with a major role in Universal Pictures' upcoming Snoop Dogg biopic, titled Snoop. The actress has joined the film's ensemble cast and will portray Afeni Shakur, the mother of late rapper Tupac Shakur. Her casting brings another important figure from the history of hip-hop into a movie centred on one of the genre's most recognisable icons.
Directed by Craig Brewer, the film stars Jonathan Daviss as Snoop Dogg and is currently in production in Southern California. With several actors portraying influential musicians and people from Snoop's life, the project is shaping up as an expansive look at his journey to global fame.
Cynthia Erivo Cast as Afeni Shakur in Snoop
Erivo will portray Afeni Shakur, a former Black Panther activist and the mother of Tupac Shakur. Afeni was an influential figure in her own right, known for her political activism and later for managing her son's estate following his death in 1996. Her relationship with Tupac also inspired one of the rapper's most personal songs, "Dear Mama", released in 1995. The track reflected on his childhood, his mother's struggles and the complicated bond they shared. It became one of his most celebrated songs and remains an important part of his musical legacy.
Erivo's casting adds a significant emotional dimension to the film, as Afeni's story connects Tupac's personal life with the wider cultural and political history surrounding him. The filmmakers have not yet revealed how extensively her character will feature in the narrative. The actress is a three-time Academy Award nominee and has earned recognition across film, television, music and theatre. She is widely known for playing Elphaba in the Wicked films, while her previous screen roles include Harriet and Widows.
Jonathan Daviss, Camron Jones and Other Actors Join the Cast
Snoop features Jonathan Daviss in the leading role as Snoop Dogg, while Camron Jones will portray Tupac Shakur. Myles Bullock Be has been cast as Dr. Dre, and Lauren London will play Snoop's late mother, Beverly Tate. The ensemble also includes Algee Smith as Warren G, Tre Hale as Suge Knight, Laya DeLeon Hayes as Snoop's wife Shante Broadus, Olly Sholotan as Kurupt, Corey Champagne as Nate Dogg and Jonica Booth as The Lady of Rage.
SwayvoTwain will portray The Notorious B.I.G. The casting brings together performers representing several influential names from the 1990s West Coast hip-hop scene. Their characters are expected to form an important part of the story as it explores Snoop's rise and the people who shaped his career.
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What Is Snoop About? Craig Brewer Directs the Biopic
The film is being directed by Craig Brewer, known for Hustle & Flow and Song Sung Blue. He is working from a revised screenplay based on an original script by Joe Robert Cole, who previously co-wrote Black Panther and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The project is described as the definitive biopic of Snoop Dogg, tracing his journey from Long Beach in the 1990s to becoming an internationally recognised rapper and entertainment personality.
Music will be central to the film, which is expected to incorporate tracks from Snoop's extensive catalogue. The production is also notable as the first project under Death Row Pictures' overall deal with NBCUniversal Entertainment and Studios. Snoop Dogg is producing alongside Brian Grazer and Allan Mandelbaum of Imagine Entertainment, as well as Death Row Pictures president Sara Ramaker.
When Will Snoop Release in Theatres?
Universal Pictures has scheduled Snoop for a theatrical release on August 6, 2027. Principal photography is currently underway in Southern California, with further production and promotional details expected to emerge as the project progresses.
The film brings together major figures from hip-hop history through its casting, with Erivo's portrayal of Afeni Shakur adding another important perspective to the story. While the makers have kept specific plot details under wraps, the combination of Snoop's music, his personal journey and the people who influenced his career will form the foundation of the biographical drama.
Final Take
Cynthia Erivo has joined Universal's Snoop as Afeni Shakur, the mother of Tupac Shakur, adding an important character to the upcoming Snoop Dogg biopic. With Jonathan Daviss playing Snoop, Camron Jones portraying Tupac and Craig Brewer directing, the film will explore the rapper's journey alongside several influential figures from hip-hop history. The movie is currently filming in Southern California and is scheduled to reach theatres on August 6, 2027.
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