Curtis James Jackson III (born June 6, 1975), known professionally as 50 Cent, is an American rapper, actor, and entrepreneur.
Early Life[]
Born in the South Jamaica neighborhood of Queens, New York City, Jackson faced a challenging upbringing. His mother, Sabrina, was a drug dealer who passed away when he was eight years old, leading him to be raised by his grandparents. By age 12, Jackson began dealing narcotics during the 1980s crack epidemic. He later pursued boxing and, eventually, music.
Career[]
In 2000, days before the planned release of his debut album "Power Of The Dollar," Jackson was shot nine times, which led to the album's cancellation. Despite this setback, he released the mixtape "Guess Who's Back?" in 2002, catching the attention of Eminem. This led to a deal with Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, and Interscope Records. His debut studio album, "Get Rich or Die Tryin'" (2003), was a commercial success, featuring hits like "In Da Club" and "21 Questions." He followed up with "The Massacre" (2005), which included tracks such as "Candy Shop."
Beyond music, Jackson has ventured into acting, appearing in films like "Get Rich Or Die Tryin (film)'" (2005) and "Righteous Kill" (2008). He has also made significant strides in television production, notably with the series "Power" (2014–2020) and its spin-offs. As an entrepreneur, Jackson founded G-Unit Records and has been involved in various business ventures, including a partnership with Vitamin Water, which reportedly earned him $100 million.
Legal Challenges[]
Throughout his career, Jackson has faced legal challenges, reportedly spending $24 million on legal fees. Despite these hurdles, he remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Recent Developments[]
Recently, Eminem expressed interest in collaborating with Jackson on a full album, highlighting their enduring partnership.
Jackson's journey from a troubled youth to a successful artist and businessman underscores his resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.
Discography[]
See also: Discography