Kid Cudi to Star as Basquiat in Self-Penned Film

Musician Kid Cudi announced he will portray artist Jean-Michel Basquiat in a film he has written and will direct, titled "Jean." Principal photography for the project is scheduled to commence in 2027. Cudi shared that after years of consideration for such a role, he decided to write the screenplay himself, describing the process as challenging yet rewarding.

Cudi stated that "Jean" will be a "love letter" to Basquiat, the 1980s, and New York City, drawing inspiration from the artist throughout his career. He aims to tell Basquiat's story in a manner previously unseen. This endeavor adds to Cudi's growing acting and directing portfolio, which includes roles in various films and his feature directorial debut "Doe."

Previously, a film about Basquiat, "The Collaboration," adapted from a stage play, was in development. This project starred Paul Bettany and Jeremy Pop and is currently awaiting a release date.