From Compton To Pantera: 7 Must-See Movies That Prove Ice Cube's Son, O'Shea Jackson Jr., Is Hollywood Royalty In His Own Right

The legacy of Ice Cube is undeniable, but his son, O'Shea Jackson Jr., has proven in the last few years that he is far more than just a lookalike. As of the current date in late 2025, Jackson Jr. has successfully transitioned from the daunting task of portraying his legendary father in a biopic to establishing a versatile career across action, drama, and comedy, with major upcoming projects solidifying his status as a leading man. His filmography is a masterclass in career progression, moving from his breakout role to sharing the screen with Hollywood heavyweights in blockbuster franchises and critically acclaimed indie features. This article dives deep into the most significant and recent entries in O'Shea Jackson Jr.'s film and television career, highlighting the crucial roles that define his journey and, most importantly, giving you the latest updates on his highly anticipated 2025 and 2026 releases.

O'Shea Jackson Jr. Biography and Profile

O'Shea Jackson Jr., also known by his stage name OMG, is an American actor, rapper, and songwriter. He is the oldest son of legendary rapper and actor Ice Cube (O'Shea Jackson Sr.).

• Full Name: O'Shea Jackson Jr.
• Born: February 24, 1991
• Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
• Age (as of late 2025): 34
• Known For: Portraying his father, Ice Cube, in the biopic Straight Outta Compton, and his role as Donnie Wilson in the Den of Thieves franchise.
• Education: Attended the University of Southern California (USC).
• Career Start: Initially pursued a career in music, releasing his own mixtapes before transitioning to acting.

Jackson Jr.'s career trajectory is a rare Hollywood success story. He took a massive risk by auditioning to play his father, a role that could have easily typecast him, but his performance was so nuanced and authentic that it immediately opened doors to a diverse range of projects, allowing him to carve out his own distinct path in the industry.

The Pivotal Roles: Jackson Jr.'s Path to Leading Man Status

The true measure of Jackson Jr.'s talent lies in his ability to step out of his father's shadow. He has strategically chosen roles that showcase his range, proving he can handle intense action, subtle drama, and pitch-black comedy with equal skill.

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1. Straight Outta Compton (2015) - The Unforgettable Debut

Jackson Jr.'s feature film debut was arguably one of the most challenging acting roles a newcomer could face: playing his own father, Ice Cube, in the N.W.A. biographical drama, Straight Outta Compton.

The resemblance was uncanny, but it was his dedicated study of his father’s mannerisms, voice, and stage presence that won over critics and audiences alike. Directed by F. Gary Gray, the film chronicled the rise and fall of the iconic rap group N.W.A., which included Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, Eazy-E, MC Ren, and DJ Yella. His performance was not just an imitation; it was an embodiment of the young, fiery, and fiercely intelligent O'Shea Jackson Sr., instantly establishing the younger Jackson as a serious acting talent.

2. Den of Thieves (2018) - The Action Star Breakout

Following his debut, Jackson Jr. pivoted sharply into the action-thriller genre with Den of Thieves, a high-stakes heist film directed by Christian Gudegast.

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He played Donnie Wilson, the mysterious, highly skilled getaway driver who acts as the crew's 'in' man. Starring opposite Gerard Butler's 'Big Nick' O'Brien, Jackson Jr. held his own in the gritty, intense environment of the Los Angeles crime underworld. The film’s success cemented his ability to anchor a major studio action franchise, a genre that requires both physical presence and dramatic weight.

3. Ingrid Goes West (2017) - Showcasing Comedic Range

In a move that surprised many, Jackson Jr. took a supporting role in the dark comedy Ingrid Goes West, starring Aubrey Plaza and Elizabeth Olsen.

He played Dan Pinto, the sweet, Batman-obsessed aspiring screenwriter who befriends Plaza's character. The role was a stark contrast to his previous work, allowing him to demonstrate a softer, more comedic side. Critics praised his natural chemistry and timing, proving he was not limited to heavy drama or action.

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4. Just Mercy (2019) - The Dramatic Depth

To further establish his dramatic chops, Jackson Jr. joined a powerhouse cast in the legal drama Just Mercy, based on the true story of civil rights defense attorney Bryan Stevenson (played by Michael B. Jordan).

Jackson Jr. played Anthony Ray Hinton, one of the men on death row. Though a smaller role, his performance contributed to the film’s emotional core, showcasing his commitment to powerful, socially relevant storytelling. The film received strong critical acclaim for its performances and subject matter.

5. Cocaine Bear (2023) - The Blockbuster Hit

Directed by Elizabeth Banks, the horror-comedy Cocaine Bear was a major commercial success and a cultural phenomenon.

Jackson Jr. played Daveed, a fixer sent to recover the missing cocaine. The role was a blend of action and comedy, requiring him to react to the absurd premise of a bear high on drugs. This project demonstrated his comfort in a large ensemble cast and his willingness to participate in high-concept, fun, and commercially viable cinema, further expanding his audience reach.

Upcoming Projects: The Future of O'Shea Jackson Jr. in 2025 and Beyond

Jackson Jr.'s upcoming slate is arguably the most exciting part of his filmography, with a sequel to his major action hit and a promising new TV series.

6. Den of Thieves 2: Pantera (2025) - The Highly Anticipated Sequel

The sequel to Den of Thieves, titled Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, is one of the most anticipated action films on the calendar, with an expected release window in 2025.

Jackson Jr. reprises his role as Donnie Wilson, who is now reportedly embroiled in the treacherous world of diamond thieves and the infamous Panther mafia in Europe. The plot sees Gerard Butler’s character, Big Nick, back on the hunt, closing in on Donnie across the continent. This film is set to fully unleash Jackson Jr. as an international action star, a major milestone in his career.

7. Swagger (2021-Present) - The Apple TV+ Series

While primarily a movie star, Jackson Jr. has also made a significant mark on television in the Apple TV+ series Swagger, which is inspired by the life of NBA superstar Kevin Durant.

He stars as Ike Edwards, a former star player who is now a youth basketball coach. The series is a deep dive into the world of elite youth basketball, focusing on the players, their families, and the coaches who navigate the pressures of the sport. The show has been praised for its authentic storytelling and is a key part of Jackson Jr.'s recent work, showcasing his ability to lead a long-form television drama.

Topical Authority and Legacy: Beyond the Family Name

O'Shea Jackson Jr. has meticulously built a career that honors his father's legacy while forging his own identity. The initial buzz surrounding his resemblance to Ice Cube for Straight Outta Compton has long been replaced by genuine respect for his acting versatility. He has successfully navigated the challenging transition from a musician's son to a respected actor.

His work with major directors and co-stars—including F. Gary Gray, Christian Gudegast, Gerard Butler, Michael B. Jordan, Aubrey Plaza, Elizabeth Banks, and Keri Russell in *Cocaine Bear*—speaks volumes about his standing in the industry. Furthermore, he is attached to other new projects like the upcoming movie *The Great Flood* (2025), confirming a busy and diverse future.

With the release of Den of Thieves 2: Pantera on the horizon in 2025, Jackson Jr. is poised to become a definitive action hero for the next generation, proving that his talent is a powerful force of its own.