MC Eiht Explains Why Tupac Shakur Was Fired From "Menace II Society"

BYErika Marie14.1K Views
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MC Eiht starred in the classic film and shared that Tupac was originally cast to play the role of Sharif but got the boot for being difficult.

In an alternate universe, Tupac Shakur starred in Menace II Society. In our real world, however, the late rapper didn't make an appearance. The classic film is a favorite to millions, and during a talk with People's Party with Talib KweliMC Eiht shared that early on, Tupac was hand-picked for the role of Sharif. The part would later go to Vonte Sweet, so Eiht explained why Tupac was booted from the film.

"The Hughes brothers worked all of Pac's earlier sh*t," Eiht said. "'Brenda Got a Baby,' all that sh*t. So they knew him [and] knew he was difficult to work with, but I think New Line [Cinema] wanted him in the movie. JuicePoetic Justice, you know, and y'all have a relationship with him... We want him. So, who knows what happened, but, okay. We'll get him in the movie. I don't think it was the plan to keep him in the movie. We all know Pac, very vocal. Very outspoken."

According to MC Eiht, Tupac questioned why he was cast as Sharif when everyone else got to be gangbangers. The rapper wanted the movie producers to give his character more of a backstory so that the audience knew why he was the "voice of reason." The film's production team didn't have time for that. Tupac in turn, allegedly, made the table readings difficult because he wouldn't participate. Soon, Vonte took his place.

MC Eiht said that he thinks Tupac was given the role of Sharif because they knew he would fight it and they'd have a way to get rid of him. Check out the full clip of MC Eiht chatting about Tupac Shakur on People's Party with Talib Kweli below.  


About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
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