Tyrese Gibson recently dropped a bombshell, revealing how he landed the iconic role in Baby Boy, a part that was originally meant for the legendary 2Pac. During an eye-opening interview on the Million Dollaz Worth of Game podcast, the R&B star and actor shared the compelling story that’s been making waves online.
In a candid conversation, Tyrese recounted a powerful encounter with the late, great director John Singleton. It was during this moment that Singleton compared Tyrese to 2Pac, a connection that would ultimately lead to Gibson taking on the role in the classic film.
“I grew up in the rough streets of Watts, right around Martin Luther King Hospital,” Tyrese began. “I wasn’t out here gangbanging or selling drugs. But I’m a real hood guy who could make things happen if needed.”
This authentic street credibility is what Tyrese believes caught Singleton’s eye, leading the director to see a unique parallel between the actor and the late West Coast rap icon.
“John Singleton told me, ‘You’re the only one who reminds me of Pac,’” Tyrese recalled. “Everyone else was trying to be like Pac, getting tattoos, rapping, and trying to live that thug life. But John saw something real in me, something that genuinely reminded him of Pac.”
Tyrese also revealed that this comparison wasn’t just Singleton’s opinion—it was shared by someone incredibly close to 2Pac: his mother, Afeni Shakur. Over time, Tyrese developed a deep connection with Afeni, who eventually became the godmother to his daughter.
“Afeni said it too,” Tyrese noted, emphasizing the profound link he shares with 2Pac’s legacy.
Tyrese’s story offers a rare glimpse into the making of Baby Boy and the deep connections that helped shape his career, further solidifying his place in Hollywood.
