ASAP Rocky Takes the Lead in Spike Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest
ASAP Rocky, born Rakim Mayers, has proven himself a multifaceted talent, excelling not only as a rapper but also as a fashion icon and, increasingly, an actor. While fans have long appreciated his charisma on the mic and runway—thanks to collaborations with brands like Calvin Klein and PUMA—Rocky’s next big move is set to make waves in Hollywood. The Harlem-born star will take on the lead role in Spike Lee’s highly anticipated crime drama, Highest 2 Lowest.
A Career-Defining Role
Announced in February 2024, Highest 2 Lowest immediately generated buzz, primarily due to the reunion of Spike Lee and Denzel Washington. The pair have delivered several cinematic classics since the 1990s, including Malcolm X and He Got Game, but they haven’t worked together in over two decades. Initially, fans assumed Washington would take the lead, but during the 2024 Red Sea International Film Festival, Spike Lee confirmed otherwise.
“The main role … is ASAP Rocky,” Lee announced. “People will see when it comes out. It’s dynamite.”
For Rocky, this represents a huge leap forward in his acting career. While he made his feature debut in Dope (2015) and delivered memorable performances in Zoolander 2 (2016) and Monster (2018), Highest 2 Lowest offers a chance to establish himself as a leading man in a film helmed by one of cinema’s most celebrated directors.
A Growing Presence in Film
ASAP Rocky’s role in Highest 2 Lowest is not the only evidence of his growing influence in Hollywood. He’s also set to star in If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, an upcoming A24 dramedy produced by the Safdie brothers, known for their work on Uncut Gems and Good Time. These projects, featuring high-profile collaborators, suggest Rocky is well on his way to becoming a bona fide movie star.
Music on Hold
While fans of Rocky’s music may celebrate his acting milestones, his pivot to Hollywood comes with a price. The rapper’s long-awaited album, Don’t Be Dumb, has been delayed once again. Originally slated for a 2024 release, pre-orders for the album were refunded after Rocky confirmed the project would now drop in 2025. This marks yet another setback for the album, despite the release of three singles that have been well-received by fans.
The timing of the delay announcement—coinciding with the news of his lead role in Highest 2 Lowest—suggests that Rocky’s focus has shifted away from music, at least for the time being. While fans may be disappointed, they’ll no doubt look forward to seeing him shine on the big screen.
The Stakes for Highest 2 Lowest
Highest 2 Lowest is shaping up to be a significant cinematic moment. With Spike Lee directing and Denzel Washington also attached in an undisclosed role, the film is already a contender for critical acclaim. Rocky’s involvement adds a layer of intrigue, marking his arrival as a serious actor capable of headlining major projects.
For day-one fans of ASAP Rocky, his journey from Harlem rapper to Hollywood actor might feel bittersweet. The delay of Don’t Be Dumb has left many wondering when, or if, he’ll return to music. Still, his leap into acting represents an exciting evolution of his career.
A Star on the Rise
Whether or not Rocky’s music takes a backseat permanently, his versatility and ambition remain undeniable. With Highest 2 Lowest on the horizon and other film projects lined up, 2025 could be the year ASAP Rocky becomes as synonymous with Hollywood as he is with hip-hop. For now, fans can only wait—and hope—that the dynamite promised by Spike Lee delivers.
