Jamal “Gravy” Woolard, an American actor, rapper, and comedian, is widely recognized for his portrayal of The Notorious B.I.G. in the biopic “Notorious” and his role in the Tupac Shakur biopic “All Eyez on Me.” Hailing from Bensonhurst Brooklyn and Lafayette Gardens, Brooklyn, Woolard has a multifaceted career in entertainment that extends beyond just acting.
Early Life and Career
Woolard grew up in Brooklyn’s Lafayette Gardens, often referred to as L.G., which shares a cultural resemblance with the lifestyle and background of The Notorious B.I.G. In the music world, Woolard raps under the stage name “Gravy” and has collaborated with prominent artists. Notably, he was featured in the song “Untouchable” by Tupac Shakur on the album “Pac’s Life.”
Memorable Incidents and Controversies
One of the defining moments in Woolard’s career came in 2006 when he was involved in a high-profile incident at radio station Hot 97, where he was shot in the buttocks. Despite the severity of the event, Woolard conducted an interview shortly afterward. Unfortunately, this incident led to his music being banned from the station.
Film Contributions and Notable Roles
To authentically portray The Notorious B.I.G. in the film “Notorious,” Woolard committed to gaining over 50 pounds, demonstrating his dedication to the role. His performance was compelling enough to earn him nominations for prestigious awards including the BET Awards and Black Reel Awards. Furthermore, Woolard’s acting repertoire includes appearances in other films such as “Barbershop: The Next Cut.”
Continued Presence in the Entertainment World
Woolard remains active in both the music and film industries, having released multiple mixtapes over the years. His contributions extend beyond entertainment; they serve as a point of cultural reflection and pride for Brooklyn.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Jamal “Gravy” Woolard |
Profession | Actor, Rapper, Comedian |
Notable Roles | The Notorious B.I.G. in “Notorious”, Role in “All Eyez on Me”, “Barbershop: The Next Cut” |
Major Incident | Shot in buttocks at Hot 97 in 2006; music banned from the station |
Awards and Nominations | Nominated for BET Awards, Black Reel Awards |
Origins | Bensonhurst Brooklyn, Lafayette Gardens, Brooklyn |
Stage Name | Gravy |
Notable Collaborations | Featured in Tupac Shakur’s “Untouchable” |
Further Reading | Net worth category archive page |
For more insights into the financial impact of his career, visit our net worth category archive page.