Jonathan Daviss To Lead The Snoop Dogg Biopic As The Music Icon; Everything You Need To Know

The Snoop Dogg Biopic has finally found its star, with Outer Banks actor Jonathan Daviss cast as the legendary rapper in Universal Pictures’ highly anticipated film.

Announced on June 9, 2025, this casting marks a pivotal moment for the project, directed by Craig Brewer and produced by Snoop Dogg himself.

With no reviews yet, as the film is still in pre-production, the buzz on X and early reactions highlight Daviss’ potential to capture Snoop’s laid-back charisma and cultural impact.

Here’s a breakdown and analysis of the casting news, its implications, and what to expect from this hip-hop biopic.

Who Is Jonathan Daviss, and Why Was He Cast as Snoop Dogg?

Jonathan Daviss, 25, is best known for playing Pope Heyward in Netflix’s Outer Banks, where he’s showcased dramatic depth and charm. His casting as Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Broadus Jr., was confirmed by Deadline and celebrated by Snoop on Instagram, where he called Daviss “nefew” and urged, “Let’s get 2 work!!!”.

Daviss’ prior roles in Do Revenge and Edge of the World demonstrate versatility, but this biopic marks his first major leading role. Snoop praised Daviss’ “dynamic” spirit and ability to do “justice” to his story, suggesting a personal connection and confidence in the young actor’s authenticity. Fans on X note a physical resemblance, with @DiscussingFilm and @PopCrave amplifying the hype.

What Will the Snoop Dogg Biopic Cover?

The Jonathan Daviss-led Snoop Dogg Biopic will chronicle Snoop’s journey from Long Beach, California, to global stardom, focusing on his 1993 debut album Doggystyle, produced by Dr. Dre. Deadline describes it as a deep dive into Snoop’s rise in the West Coast hip-hop scene, his laid-back flow, and his evolution into a cultural icon.

The biopic will also explore his family life, with Snoop emphasizing it as an “evolution story” and “love story” involving his wife, Shante Broadus.

Produced under Death Row Pictures’ new deal with NBCUniversal, the film aims to blend grit and heart, much like Universal’s Straight Outta Compton and 8 Mile. No other cast members are confirmed, but Snoop’s involvement ensures authenticity.

How Does Craig Brewer’s Direction Shape the Project?

Director Craig Brewer, known for Hustle & Flow and Dolemite Is My Name, brings a proven track record in music-driven storytelling. He’s revising a script originally penned by Black Panther co-writer Joe Robert Cole, aiming for a raw, human narrative.

Brewer’s experience with Hustle & Flow’s Oscar-winning grit suggests he’ll capture Snoop’s street-to-stardom arc with nuance.

Filmofilia notes Brewer’s “wild track record” could make this a “masterpiece” or riskier venture, but his collaboration with Snoop and producers like Brian Grazer (A Beautiful Mind) bolsters confidence.

The film’s authenticity is furthered by its Death Row Pictures banner, with Snoop reclaiming his narrative.

What’s the Fan and Industry Reaction to Daviss’ Casting?

The casting announcement trended on X, with #BETAwards amplifying buzz after Snoop and Daviss appeared together at the 2025 BET Awards.

Outer Banks fans are thrilled, with X posts like “Jonathan Daviss as Snoop Dogg yeah im SO SAT” and “he really look like Snoop” reflecting excitement.

Industry outlets like Billboard Philippines and The Hollywood Reporter frame Daviss as a rising star ready for a breakout.

However, some skepticism exists, as Filmofilia recalls Hollywood’s mixed history with biopic casting, citing risks with lesser-known leads.

Snoop’s enthusiastic endorsement and Daviss’ growing fanbase counter these doubts, positioning the project as a cultural moment.

Why Is This Casting Significant for Music Biopics?

The choice of Daviss, a Gen Z actor, over a bigger name reflects a bold move akin to Straight Outta Compton’s gamble on O’Shea Jackson Jr..

Melodic Magazine notes music biopics are thriving, citing Bob Marley: One Love and A Complete Unknown as recent successes. Universal’s track record with hip-hop stories (8 Mile, Straight Outta Compton) sets high expectations, and Snoop’s involvement as producer ensures a personal touch.

Daviss’ casting could launch him to stardom, much like past biopic leads, while appealing to younger audiences familiar with Outer Banks. The film’s focus on Snoop’s 90s roots and modern influence bridges generational gaps.

Highlights of the Snoop Dogg Biopic  

• Lead Actor: Jonathan Daviss (Outer Banks) as Snoop Dogg.

• Director: Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow, Dolemite Is My Name).

• Producers: Snoop Dogg, Brian Grazer, Sara Ramaker (Death Row Pictures).

• Story Focus: Snoop’s rise from Long Beach to Doggystyle fame, family life, and cultural legacy.

• Studio: Universal Pictures, under Death Row Pictures’ NBCUniversal deal.

• Release Date: Not yet announced; in pre-production.

• Cultural Context: Follows successful hip-hop biopics like Straight Outta Compton.

Some Closing Thoughts: A Promising Step for Snoop’s Cinematic Legacy

The Snoop Dogg Biopic is off to a strong start with Jonathan Daviss’ casting, blending fresh talent with a seasoned creative team.

Brewer’s direction, Snoop’s personal investment, and Universal’s hip-hop biopic pedigree set the stage for a film that could rival Straight Outta Compton’s impact.

While the lack of a release date and additional casting keeps anticipation simmering, the buzz on X and Snoop’s seal of approval signal a hit in the making.

Stay tuned for updates, and join the conversation on X to share your thoughts on Daviss as the Doggfather!