15 RARE Behind-The-Scenes Photos & Shocking Facts You Never Knew About The Classic 'Friday' Movie (30th Anniversary Update)

It’s hard to believe that the cultural phenomenon known as *Friday* is approaching its 30th anniversary. Released in 1995, the film transcended its low-budget origins to become one of the most quotable and beloved comedies in cinematic history, launching the careers of several stars and cementing the legacy of Ice Cube as a writer and producer. As of this current date in December 2025, the film's enduring popularity is evidenced by ongoing discussions about a fourth installment, *Last Friday*, and special 30th-anniversary screenings already being planned for 2025.

The beauty of *Friday* lies in its simple, slice-of-life narrative about two friends, Craig and Smokey, navigating a single, eventful day in South Central Los Angeles. While the on-screen moments are iconic, the real magic—and some of the most surprising facts—happened behind the camera. We've compiled a list of the rarest photos and the most shocking, little-known facts about the making of this cult classic, featuring fresh updates on the cast and the highly anticipated sequel.

The Iconic Cast of *Friday*: Where Are They Now (2025 Update)

The film was a launching pad for many actors, and sadly, has also seen the passing of several beloved figures. The following is a look at the main ensemble, their roles, and their career status as the film approaches its 30th year.

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• Ice Cube (O’Shea Jackson Sr.) as Craig Jones:
  • Born: June 15, 1969 (Age 56 in 2025)
  • Role: The protagonist who gets fired on his day off and ends up in a drug-related mess with his friend.
  • Status: Continues to be a major force in music (N.W.A.), film (the *Barbershop* and *Ride Along* franchises), and television. He remains the driving creative force behind the *Friday* franchise and is actively pushing for the development of *Last Friday*.
• Chris Tucker as Smokey:
  • Born: August 31, 1971 (Age 54 in 2025)
  • Role: Craig's best friend and a notorious stoner who owes money to the local drug dealer, Big Worm.
  • Status: Achieved massive global stardom with the *Rush Hour* franchise. He famously did not return for the sequels, *Next Friday* or *Friday After Next*, reportedly due to a desire to move away from drug-related humor. He continues to tour as a stand-up comedian and takes on select film roles.
• Nia Long as Debbie:
  • Born: October 30, 1970 (Age 54 in 2025)
  • Role: Craig's love interest and a neighbor who helps him stand up to Deebo.
  • Status: A highly respected actress with a career spanning decades, including roles in *Love Jones*, *The Best Man* franchise, and recent TV series appearances.
• John Witherspoon as Willie Jones (Dad):
  • Born: January 27, 1942 – Died: October 29, 2019
  • Role: Craig's perpetually annoyed, but loving, father.
  • Status: The legendary comedian and actor passed away in 2019. His passing was a major blow to the potential *Last Friday* film, as he was a fan favorite in all three installments.
• Tiny "Zeus" Lister Jr. as Deebo:
  • Born: June 24, 1958 – Died: December 10, 2020
  • Role: The neighborhood bully who steals and intimidates everyone.
  • Status: The imposing actor, known for his signature role as Deebo, passed away in 2020. His death, along with Witherspoon's, has complicated the development of the fourth film.
• Terry Crews as Damon:
  • Born: July 30, 1968 (Age 56 in 2025)
  • Role: The intimidating, but ultimately outsmarted, former convict in *Friday After Next*.
  • Status: While not in the original *Friday*, Crews became a fan favorite in the third film. He has recently provided a hopeful update on the *Last Friday* movie, stating there have been positive discussions about a potential fourth film and his eagerness to reunite with the original cast.

Rare Behind-the-Scenes Facts That Shaped a Classic

The film’s authenticity is rooted in its production, which was fraught with budget constraints and tight deadlines. These challenges forced creative decisions that resulted in the timeless comedy we know today. Finding original, high-quality photos from the set is difficult due to the low-budget nature of the 1995 production, making any glimpse behind the camera truly rare.

1. The Entire Film Was Shot in Just 20 Days

The production schedule for *Friday* was incredibly brief, lasting only 20 days. This accelerated pace meant the cast and crew had to be constantly on their game, contributing to the raw, almost documentary-style feel of the movie. The entire film was shot on location in one neighborhood in South Central Los Angeles, specifically in the 1200 block of W. 126th Street. The actual house used for Craig's home was later used again for the sequels, *Next Friday* and *Friday After Next*.

2. Chris Tucker Was Almost Not Cast as Smokey

It's almost impossible to imagine anyone other than Chris Tucker in the role of Smokey, but the part was initially offered to other actors, including Tommy Davidson. Ice Cube and DJ Pooh, who co-wrote the film, were initially unsure about Tucker. However, after seeing his stand-up routine, they were convinced. Tucker’s improvised lines and unique delivery—including the iconic "You got knocked the f*** out!"—were a major component of the film's success. Rare behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage exists, showing the early chemistry between Cube and Tucker.

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3. The Budget Was Shockingly Low: Only $3.5 Million

*Friday* was made on a shoestring budget of approximately $3.5 million. This low cost forced the filmmakers to be resourceful, leading to its single-location setting and minimal special effects. This financial restraint ultimately worked in the film's favor, grounding the story in a relatable, everyday environment. The film went on to gross over $27 million domestically, making it a massive financial success for New Line Cinema.

4. Michael Clarke Duncan Made His Theatrical Debut as an Extra

Before his breakthrough role in *The Green Mile*, the late Michael Clarke Duncan appeared in *Friday* as an uncredited background extra. He can be spotted briefly in the background during one of the neighborhood scenes. This little-known fact is a testament to the film's ability to capture up-and-coming talent, even if they were just starting out.

5. Ice Cube Wrote the Script to Counter Violence

Ice Cube co-wrote the script with DJ Pooh as a direct response to the increase in "hood films" that focused heavily on gang violence and tragedy. He wanted to show a more comedic, positive, and everyday side of life in the hood, where people hung out, laughed, and dealt with minor (albeit drug-related) problems without a tragic ending. This intention is key to the film's enduring positive legacy.

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The Future of the Franchise: *Last Friday* and the 30th Anniversary

The most pressing question for fans remains: Will there be a *Last Friday*? The answer, as of late 2024 and early 2025, is a cautious "maybe."

The Roadblocks and Renewed Hope for *Last Friday*

For years, Ice Cube has expressed a strong desire to make a fourth and final installment, which he has titled *Last Friday*. The project has faced numerous hurdles, most notably the passing of key cast members John Witherspoon and Tiny Lister Jr. Cube has stated that the film cannot be the same without them, but he is determined to honor their legacies. The other major hurdle was the ongoing legal issues with the studio over the rights and production budget.

However, recent updates from cast members like Terry Crews suggest that discussions have been positive, and the possibility of a reunion film is still very much alive. A potential *Last Friday* would likely center on the remaining cast finding a way to pay tribute to the characters of Deebo and Willie Jones, perhaps through flashbacks or new family members.

The 30th Anniversary Celebrations in 2025

While the sequel remains in development hell, the 30th Anniversary of *Friday* in 2025 is a guaranteed event for fans. Special screenings are already being organized for the iconic date of 4/20, a nod to the film’s central theme. These anniversary events will feature the film back on the big screen, giving a new generation a chance to experience the comedy classic in a theater setting, and offering older fans a perfect opportunity for a nostalgic reunion.

The film’s topical authority is undeniable, having introduced LSI keywords and phrases like "Bye, Felicia!" and "You got knocked the f*** out!" into the global lexicon. As we approach the three-decade mark, the rare photos, behind-the-scenes stories, and the hope for a final chapter only deepen the love for this timeless piece of cinema.