True crime programming is nothing new. And over the last few years, fandom for this genre of entertainment has grown tremendously. Given that demand, platforms make gains by taking a risk on true crime programming. Whether it is scripted or reality-based, there is money to be made. Thus, it is no shock for viewers to turn to a streaming platform and find more than a few true-crime series on the docket. So conversely, it isn’t surprising when new offerings within the genre arise. Now, Curtis Jackson, aka 50 Cent, is getting in on the action with Hip Hop Homicides.

50 Cent, a performer and serial entrepreneur, had already made good on his ambitions as a rap artist before foraying into television. In 2010, Jackson was pitched an idea he couldn’t resist. However, in the entertainment industry, ideas are a dime a dozen. Getting others to buy in isn’t simple. And likewise, getting his project green-lit took some elbow grease and time. But Jackson didn’t let the rejections deter him, and he went to work. Eventually, his dogged pursuit led to a major platform picking up his series.

In 2014, Starz jumped on board, green-lighting Jackson’s first television production, which would become known as the hit crime drama Power. From that point, it was full speed ahead for Jackson. And Jackson has not ceased to pour himself into television producing since.

Jackson has made a solid name for himself in the television industry. His works developed for the Power universe and other projects, For Life and BMF, stand as solid indicators of his artistic vision. However, despite over eight years of content contribution, the announcement of a dive into true crime still took some by surprise. Jackson had built his credibility in the area of scripted drama. And true crime reality is a different beast altogether.

However, his diversion into other facets of entertainment is not as odd as some may think. This move was a part of Jackson’s plan. Jackson contended in a press release, “As he continued to grow his current slate, premium non-scripted programming would be a major focus.” Given the current project, he is on course.

Hip Hop Homicides: What Is the Series About?

Curtis Jackson unveiled the official trailer last month on social media. The trailer boasted exclusive witness testimonies and case-by-case conspiracy analysis, drawing up enough intrigue to kick up a buzz. Some found their interest piqued, while others had less than positive sentiments. Despite the ongoing opinions, the series creators hope to make good on one promise, in particular, as Dilemma Radio notes, viewers will leave a little more educated on what might have happened to these artists — and why.

Hip-Hop Homicides falls under the category of an investigative crime series. The series is a reality series that stands to shine a light on tragedies within the hip-hop community. Hip-hop, which is as much a culture as it is a musical subset, is shaped by its tragedies as much as it is shaped by triumphs. And this is no mystery. Hip Hop Homicides is poised as an explorative feature that plunges into those tragic unsolved murder mysteries which have had a profound impact.

As Jackson told Deadline:

However, this is only what Hip Hop Homicides aims to do in part. Jackson’s co-producer additionally pegs the series as a conduit for healing, especially for those touched personally by these tragedies. Scott-Young also told Deadline:

“G-Unit Film and Television has thrived by telling real stories. As I continue to grow my current slate, premium non-scripted programming will be a major focus. Hip-hop loves things that are damaged. This series will shed light on the artists that didn’t make it through the struggle.

Hip Hop Homicides: The Crew & Featured Subjects

     WeTV

Early this year, Curtis Jackson announced that he and Mona Scott-Young would be producing a series by the name of Hip Hop Homicides to premiere in late fall. Van Lathan, well-known for his role with TMZ, will host the eight-part series. It is also expected that Jackson will also make appearances in the series. However, it’s unclear how much of the show he will appear in.

Featured interviews are also noted to be a part of the series, which includes such names as Juvenile and French Montana. There is not yet any definitive information on the complete list of figures the series will cover. However, it has been reported that it will touch on the murders of Biggie Smalls, Tupac Shakur, XXXTentacion, King Von, and more. And the first episode will focus on the untimely death of Pop Smoke.

Release Date & Where to Watch

Hip Hop Homicides will premiere on November 3rd, 2022, on the WeTV and AllBLK platforms.