The Rhyme Of Film: 5 Of The Best Rappers/Actors

From spitting rhymes on the block to starring in blockbuster films, the best rappers/actors have made the transition to the silver screen with resounding success. These five artists run the gamut from being the biggest movie stars in the world to garnering Oscar nominations and anchoring successful TV shows. For those that don’t know the background of their favorite rappers/actors, it might be a surprise to learn of their humble beginnings.

Will Smith "In West Philadelphia, born and raised…" goes the song to "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." From those humble beginnings Smith went on to a platinum-selling rap debut with "Parents Just Don’t Understand" and starred in movies such as "Men in Black," "Ali" and "I,Robot." All stars fade with time, but nobody can deny that Smith shone the biggest and brightest in the world at the turn of the 21st century. He has most certainly gotten "jiggy with it" while laying claim to being one of the best rappers/actors ever.

Queen Latifah/Dana Owens Known for her singles “U.N.I.T.Y.” and “Ladies First,” Latifah parlayed her rap success into a successful TV show and film career. She starred as strong-willed Khadijah in “Living Single,” helping to popularize the trunk jewelry/triangle earring craze at that time. Latifah later went on establish her street cred in “Set It Off,” Oscar-nominated success in “Chicago” and commercial comedic acclaim in “Bringing Down the House.”

George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg in “Three Kings” was also impressive.

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