Cynthia Erivo to Play Tupac Shakur’s Mother in Snoop Dogg Biopic

Cynthia Erivo has taken on the role of Afeni Shakur, the mother of late rapper Tupac Shakur, in a forthcoming biopic featuring Snoop Dogg. The film, produced by Universal Pictures, boasts a star-studded cast including Jonathan Daviss, Myles Bullcok Be, Lauren London, and Camron Jones. Known for her powerful vocals and acting prowess, Erivo is the recipient of three Oscar nominations and accolades in the realms of Tony, Grammy, and Emmy awards.

Afeni Shakur played a pivotal role in Tupac's life, with their tumultuous relationship inspiring the hit song "Dear Mama." This 1995 Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit and 1995 Grammy Award nominee for best rap album remains a cherished anthem in hip-hop. Erivo's latest cinematic venture includes the legal drama Prima Facie, her follow-up to Oscar-nominated performances in Wicked and Wicked: For Good.

Upcoming projects for Erivo include the animated musical fantasy comedy Bad Fairies, the action thriller Karoshi, and the highly anticipated fantasy film Children of Blood and Bone. Notably, Craig Brewer will direct the biopic, with notable producers including Imagine Entertainment's Brian Grazer and Allan Mandelbaum. Snoop Dogg and Death Row Pictures president Sara Ramaker are also attached to the project.

Erivo's casting announcement arrives amidst a flurry of exciting opportunities for the multi-talented star, recent highlights of which include a well-received appearance on Saturday Night Live UK, a solo headlining show at the Hollywood Bowl, and her upcoming portrayal of South African singer Miriam Makeba in The Road Home.