The search for the Doggfather is over. Outer Banks actor Jonathan Daviss has been tapped to play Snoop Dogg in Universal’s long-anticipated biopic about the West Coast hip-hop icon — a casting choice that signals the studio’s commitment to bringing a fresh face and grounded presence to one of rap’s most recognisable figures.
Best known for his breakout role as Pope in Netflix’s Outer Banks, Daviss now steps into far deeper cultural waters, portraying a man whose journey from Long Beach to global superstardom helped redefine the sound and swagger of '90s hip-hop. It’s a daunting challenge, but Daviss, at just 25, seems ready to bring his own perspective to the role.
Behind the camera, Hustle & Flow director Craig Brewer is reshaping the script, originally written by Joe Robert Cole, with an eye for nuance and rhythm — both of which Snoop has in abundance. The film also marks the first project from Death Row Pictures under its new deal with NBCUniversal, with Snoop himself on board as producer, alongside Brian Grazer and Sara Ramaker.
While music biopics are enjoying a major moment — from Marley to Dylan to the Beatles — this one promises something different: a story told with the blessing, and the beat, of the man at its heart. Whether Daviss can capture Snoop’s unmistakable laid-back charisma remains to be seen, but one thing's clear — this is no ordinary origin story.
