O'Shea Jackson Jr.'s Explosive Filmography: 15 Must-See Movies And TV Shows, Including His 2025 Blockbuster Return

Few actors have made an impact on Hollywood quite as swiftly and authentically as O'Shea Jackson Jr. Since his groundbreaking debut, he has consistently chosen diverse and challenging roles, proving he is far more than just "Ice Cube's son." He has successfully navigated the transition from portraying a music legend to becoming a versatile leading man in his own right, securing major roles in blockbuster films and critically acclaimed television series.

As of December 2025, O'Shea Jackson Jr.'s career trajectory is skyrocketing, with a highly anticipated 2025 sequel and a quirky, star-studded comedy on the horizon. This deep dive explores his full filmography, highlighting the essential movies and TV shows that define his topical authority and cement his status as one of the industry's most compelling actors.

O'Shea Jackson Jr. Biography and Complete Profile

O'Shea Jackson Jr. is an American actor, rapper, and songwriter who burst onto the scene with a performance critics called "uncanny" and "pitch-perfect." His career is a masterclass in leveraging a unique start while forging a completely independent path in Hollywood.

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• Full Name: O'Shea Jackson Jr.
• Also Known As: OMG (Stage Name as a Rapper)
• Date of Birth: February 24, 1991
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 34
• Place of Birth: Los Angeles, California, U.S. (Raised in Compton)
• Parents: O'Shea "Ice Cube" Jackson Sr. and Kimberly Woodruff
• Alma Mater: University of Southern California (USC)
• Notable Debut: *Straight Outta Compton* (2015)
• Current Status: Lead actor in major film franchises and streaming series.
• Key Collaborators: F. Gary Gray, Gerard Butler, Elizabeth Banks, Kevin Durant.

The Blockbuster Era: Franchise Roles and High-Octane Action

Jackson Jr. quickly showed his range by transitioning from a biographical drama to major tentpole franchises, proving his ability to handle action, drama, and large-scale productions. His choice of roles demonstrates a clear intention to work across different genres, from monster movies to gritty crime thrillers.

Den of Thieves 2: Pantera (Upcoming - January 10, 2025)

One of the most anticipated releases for the actor, *Den of Thieves 2: Pantera* sees Jackson Jr. reprise his role as Donnie Wilson, the seemingly unassuming getaway driver who was revealed to be the mastermind of the first film's massive bank heist. The sequel promises a high-stakes return, with Donnie now deeply embedded in the European diamond trade. Fans are eager to see the next chapter of his cat-and-mouse game with Gerard Butler’s character, Nick O'Brien.

Cocaine Bear (2023)

In this dark comedy thriller directed by Elizabeth Banks, Jackson Jr. played Daveed, a fixer sent to retrieve the missing cocaine. The film, which became a surprise box office hit, showcased his comedic timing and ability to anchor an ensemble cast in a truly bizarre scenario. His performance was lauded for bringing a grounded reality to the otherwise over-the-top plot.

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Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019)

Jackson Jr. entered the MonsterVerse as Chief Warrant Officer Barnes, a member of the elite G-Team tasked with tracking and fighting the Titans. His inclusion in this global franchise solidified his place as a versatile actor capable of handling big-budget special effects and high-stakes action sequences. This role further expanded his reach to a massive international audience.

From Compton to the Cosmos: Television Roles That Define His Versatility

While his film career is robust, Jackson Jr.'s work on the small screen has been equally impactful, showcasing his dramatic depth in sports drama and his ability to contribute to major sci-fi universes.

Swagger (2021–2023)

In the Apple TV+ series *Swagger*, inspired by the life of NBA star Kevin Durant, Jackson Jr. took on the lead role of Isaac "Ike" Edwards, a former basketball prodigy who becomes a coach for a youth travel team. The role was a perfect fit, allowing him to channel his real-life passion for basketball into a complex character who is both an inspirational mentor and a troubled man dealing with his own past. His portrayal earned critical praise for its emotional resonance and authenticity in the world of competitive youth sports.

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Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022)

Joining the *Star Wars* universe, Jackson Jr. played Kawlan Roken in the Disney+ limited series *Obi-Wan Kenobi*. Roken was a Path commander, a dedicated leader of a guerrilla network helping Force-sensitive individuals escape the Empire. Jackson Jr. expressed his excitement for the role, revealing that it came after he missed out on a part in another *Star Wars* film, making his appearance a particularly meaningful opportunity in the galaxy far, far away.

The Essential Filmography: From Debut to Drama

The foundation of O'Shea Jackson Jr.'s career lies in his powerful dramatic performances, which began with one of the most memorable debuts in cinematic history.

Straight Outta Compton (2015)

This is the role that launched his career. Jackson Jr. portrayed his own father, Ice Cube, in the N.W.A. biopic *Straight Outta Compton*. His performance was widely praised for his uncanny resemblance and ability to capture his father's mannerisms, voice, and intensity, a feat that is rarely seen in biopics. The film was a critical and commercial success, immediately establishing him as a serious actor.

Just Mercy (2019)

In the legal drama *Just Mercy*, Jackson Jr. delivered a powerful supporting performance as Anthony Ray Hinton, a man wrongly convicted of murder who spent 30 years on death row. Working alongside Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx, this role demonstrated his commitment to socially conscious and emotionally challenging material, showcasing his dramatic range beyond action and comedy.

Long Shot (2019)

Proving his comedic chops, Jackson Jr. starred in the romantic comedy *Long Shot* alongside Seth Rogen and Charlize Theron. He played Lance, the best friend of Rogen's character, providing much of the film’s humor and heart. This film highlighted his natural charisma and ability to excel in the buddy-comedy genre.

Upcoming Projects: The Future of O'Shea Jackson Jr.

Beyond his 2025 return in *Den of Thieves 2*, O'Shea Jackson Jr. continues to line up unique and exciting projects, ensuring his presence remains fresh and relevant in the industry. His choice of roles suggests an actor who is not afraid to take risks and explore unconventional material.

The Shitheads (Upcoming - 2025/2026)

Jackson Jr. is set to star in the upcoming dark comedy *The Shitheads*, a film written and directed by Macon Blair. The movie is described as an unhinged, drug-fueled road trip comedy and also features a high-profile cast, including Dave Franco and Peter Dinklage. With a potential 2026 Sundance Film Festival appearance, this project is shaping up to be a unique entry in his filmography, leaning heavily into the comedy and sci-fi genres.

O'Shea Jackson Jr.'s career is a testament to the power of authentic performance and strategic role selection. From his iconic debut as Ice Cube to his upcoming role as the criminal mastermind Donnie Wilson and his turns in the *Star Wars* and MonsterVerse franchises, he has proven his versatility across every major genre. His continued commitment to diverse and high-quality projects ensures that he remains one of the most exciting and authoritative figures in modern cinema.