Kid Cudi Announces He’s Writing, Directing & Starring In Upcoming Biopic About Visual Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat Biopic

Kid Cudi, Jean-Michel Basquiat

Kid Cudi Announces He’s Writing, Directing & Starring In Upcoming Biopic About Visual Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat Biopic

#KidCudi is bringing the life of legendary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat to the big screen!

The rapper announced Wednesday (Oct. 21) that he will write, direct and star in an upcoming biopic titled “JEAN,” with filming expected to begin in 2027. Cudi revealed that fans have encouraged him for years to portray the late artist, but no previous project ever materialized. “This year, I finally said f*ck it, ima write it myself,” he shared on Instagram, explaining that bringing #Basquiat’s story to life required extensive research, including reading books and speaking with people who knew him.

#Cudi also shared photos of himself wearing a wig inspired by Basquiat’s signature hairstyle, highlighting their striking resemblance. Calling the film a tribute to the artist, 1980s culture and New York City, Cudi said Basquiat has influenced him throughout his career. The celebrated painter d!ed from an accidental drug overdose in 1988 at just 27 years old. His story was previously portrayed in the 1996 film “Basquiat,” starring Jeffrey Wright, while Kelvin Harrison Jr. is set to portray him in another upcoming project, “Samo Lives.” A separate documentary, “King Pleasure,” is also in development.