O’Shea Jackson Jr., widely recognized for his compelling portrayal of his father, Ice Cube, in the 2015 biopic “Straight Outta Compton,” has steadily carved out his own niche in the entertainment industry.
Beyond his familial ties and notable acting roles, there are several intriguing facets of his life and career that remain relatively under the radar.
Here are seven interesting facts about O’Shea Jackson Jr.
1. He pursued higher education in screenwriting
While many are aware of Jackson Jr.’s acting prowess, it’s less known that he has a strong foundation in screenwriting. After graduating from William Howard Taft High School in 2009—the same school his father attended—he enrolled at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts.
There, he honed his skills in screenwriting, showcasing his dedication to understanding the craft of storytelling from multiple angles.
2. He embarked on a rap career under the moniker OMG
Following in his father’s musical footsteps, Jackson Jr. ventured into the rap scene using the stage name OMG. In 2012, he released his debut mixtape, “Jackin’ for Beats,” under Ice Cube’s independent label, Lench Mob.
The 10-track project featured his renditions of popular beats from artists like Drake and Meek Mill, allowing him to showcase his lyrical talent and pay homage to contemporary hip-hop influences.
3. He Is an avid fan of professional wrestling
Beyond his entertainment career, Jackson Jr. has a passion for professional wrestling. His enthusiasm for the sport is evident, as he has been known to engage with wrestling communities and express his admiration for various wrestlers.
This interest adds another layer to his multifaceted personality, connecting him with a diverse fan base.
4. He has a daughter named Jordan Reign Jackson
In August 2017, Jackson Jr. welcomed his daughter, Jordan Reign Jackson, with his ex-girlfriend, Jackie Garcia. Embracing fatherhood, he has spoken about the profound impact it has had on his life, emphasizing the importance of family and the lessons he has learned from his own father, Ice Cube.
5. He Is a devoted fan of Los Angeles sports teams
Growing up in Los Angeles, Jackson Jr. developed a deep-rooted loyalty to the city’s sports teams. He is an ardent supporter of the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings and the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams.
His passion for these teams reflects his strong connection to his hometown and its vibrant sports culture.
6. He auditioned for ‘Cocaine Bear’ through social media engagement
Jackson Jr.’s role in the film “Cocaine Bear” came about in an unconventional manner. He expressed interest in the project through social media, catching the attention of the film’s creators.
This modern approach to casting highlights the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry and Jackson Jr.’s proactive engagement with potential opportunities.
7. He openly criticized Hulk Hogan for past racist remarks
In a display of his commitment to social issues, Jackson Jr. publicly criticized wrestler Hulk Hogan for past racist comments. During a WWE Raw event, he, along with others, booed Hogan as a response to the wrestler’s offensive remarks from 2015.
Jackson Jr. emphasized the importance of accountability and the lasting impact of such statements on communities.
