The G-Unit founder teams up with Cam’ron to reimagine the 2002 crime drama for a new generation.
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson is adding another project to his already stacked resume. This time he’s reviving a hip-hop cult classic. The G-Unit founder now owns the rights to Paid in Full, the 2002 crime drama that’s long been a favorite in rap culture, and he’s planning to turn it into a television series.
Jackson took to Instagram on Monday, Sept. 8, to relay the news.“I now have the rights to PAID IN FULL, I’m developing it into a premium TV show,” he wrote. “If you like Godfather of Harlem you’re gonna love this. Cam set to Executive produce alongside me, if you want in get at him I’m out of the country.”
Cam’ron, who played the infamous Rico in the original movie, is officially signed on as an executive producer, making the news even more exciting for longtime fans of the film.
Fans immediately filled the comments with love, praise, and, of course, casting requests. Even artists like Conway The Machine and Maxo Kream jumped in, hinting that they’d love a spot in the upcoming series. For hip-hop fans who grew up quoting lines from the film, this feels like the ultimate revival.
The original Paid in Full was directed by Charles Stone III and produced by Dame Dash, with Jay-Z also attached as a producer. Despite helping bring the original movie to life, Dash and Cam’ron recently exchanged words online, hinting that Dame won’t be part of the reboot.
The Paid in Full movie starred Wood Harris as Ace, Mekhi Phifer as Mitch, and Cam’ron as Rico. The story was loosely based on the real lives of three notorious Harlem drug dealers from the 1980s, Azie Faison, Rich Porter, and Alpo Martinez. It followed their journey through the drug game, as well as the violence and betrayal that came with that lifestyle. Though the movie wasn’t a box office hit when it was released in 2002, it quickly gained a massive fanbase, becoming a staple in hip-hop culture.
This isn’t the first time Jackson has produced a television series. He’s already proven his producing power with shows like Power and BMF, with both becoming hits. If Paid in Full gets the same raw storytelling and high production value, fans can expect a show that not only pays tribute to the original film but also takes it to the next level for today’s audience.
The Paid in Full announcement comes just a few days after another big reveal. The G-Unit founder is officially part of the new Street Fighter movie. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Jackson will play Balrog, joining a cast that includes Jason Momoa, Noah Centineo, and more. Between TV projects, film roles, and his ongoing business ventures, 50 Cent clearly has no plans of slowing down.
