In these exclusive throwback interviews, Dominic Santana and Demetrius Shipp Jr talk about their roles in the Tupac Shakur biopic, All Eyez On Me. Hear how they approached the roles of 2Pac and Suge Knight and what it was like working with director Benny Boom.

Dominic Santana Talks Playing Suge Knight, Honoring Tupac’s Legacy & More

By: Miaira Jennings (@miairajennings)
If you’re a fan of the late hip hop legend, Tupac Shakur, then you’ve been anxiously anticipating the upcoming biopic All Eyez On Me, hitting theaters on June 16th. Dominic Santana, who portrays the infamous Suge Knight in the film, sat down with host Miaira Jennings to discuss his experience making the movie and what it meant to him. “It’s not my first big movie, but I think it’s the most impactful movie I’ve ever done and I think it’ll last for years. I know I’ll never forget it,” Dominic proudly expresses.

While there have been a few other productions that have included both Tupac and Suge, trailers for All Eyez On Me make it apparent that this film will show sides of them both that have not yet been portrayed on screen, especially in regards to the often vilified Suge. “I’m not saying Suge Knight is an angel,” Dominic explains. “All I’m saying is if you’re going to paint a picture of somebody, paint a whole picture. Say, ‘Yeah, there was some bad. But yeah, he also did a lot of good too. Let’s look at that.’”

DOMINIC SANTANA’S BIGGEST TAKE AWAY

It’s safe to say that preparing to play such a well known figure is no easy feat, and Dominic took all thenecessary steps and more. In addition to extensively researching Suge and his mannerisms, Dominic relied on tips from those who personally know Suge, including producer L.T. Hutton. He also packed on some extra pounds and went bald for the first time in his life.

After being in the industry for over 10 years, Dominic is no stranger to the determination and patience that is required to land that major role. He credits Oprah Winfrey, Denzel Washington, Samuel L. Jackson and Morgan Freeman as some of his biggest career inspirations. Upon reflecting on the biggest lesson he has learned this past year, he shares, “I think the biggest lesson I learned was–and it sounds probably kind of cliche–but to never give up and never give in.”