The Cast Of 'Krush Groove': Where Are They Now?
Today marks 38 years since the iconic hip-hop movie "Krush Groove" was released. Directed by Michael Schultz, this groundbreaking film changed hip-hop and popular culture. Filmed in less than a month in New York City in April 1985, the movie was released on October 25, 1985.
Starring an ensemble cast including Blair Underwood as Russell Walker, Run-DMC, The Fat Boys, Sheila E., Kurtis Blow, Beastie Boys, LL Cool J, and more, "Krush Groove" showcased the vibrant energy of the early hip-hop scene and has continued to inspire generations of artists and fans. Let's see where the cast is today.
Director Michael Schultz
- Michael Schultz is a Hollywood legend who directed classics like "Cooley High" (1975), "Car Wash" (1976), and Richard Pryor's "Bustin' Loose" (1981). His career only soared after "Krush Groove," with endless television and movie credits. In his 80s, he is still working and most recently directed an episode of "The Wonder Years."
Blair Underwood as Russell Walker
Blair Underwood, who portrayed Russell Walker, went on to have a successful acting career in film and television, earning critical acclaim for his performances in various roles. Next year, he will star in Ava DuVernay's "Origin."
Sheila E.
Sheila E. continued to release music after "Krush Groove." She worked with Prince for years, who passed away in 2019. The four-time Grammy nominee and legendary drummer still tours the world to this day.
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The Fat Boys (Prince Markie Dee, Kool Rock Ski, The Human Beat Box)
The Fat Boys became iconic figures in the world of hip-hop. Sadly, Darren Robinson, also known as the Human Beat Box, died in 1995 at 28 years old due to a heart attack after years of struggling with obesity. Mark "Prince Markie Dee" Morales passed away in 2021 at 52. Damon Wimbley, known as Kool Rock Ski, is the last surviving member of the group and is revered as essential part of hip-hop history.
See him in a recent 2021 interview above.
Run-DMC (Rev Run, Darryl McDaniels, Jam Master Jay)
Run-DMC is revered as one of the most influential hip-hop groups in history. While Jam Master Jay tragically passed away in 2002, Rev Run and Darryl McDaniels continued to make music, with Run-DMC's legacy living on.
See an exclusive BET video of their journey above.
Kurtis Blow
At 64, Kurtis Walker, better know as Kurtis Blow, is recognized as a hip-hop pioneer and remains active in the industry as a performer and advocate for the genre.
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Beastie Boys
After "Krush Grove," the Beastie Boys left an incredible mark on music and popular culture. Tragically, Adam Yauch (MCA) passed away in 2012 from parotid cancer at 47.
In 2014, the surviving members, Michael "Mike D" Diamond and Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz, said they would no longer make music under the Beastie Boys name due to the passing of Yauch. However, Diamond and Horovitz continue to carry on the legacy of the iconic group.
LL Cool J
Where hasn't LL Cool J been?
With a career spanning decades, he has conquered television, movie and hosting gigs. He has also been part of the "NCIS" family since 2009, playing Special Agent Sam Hanna for nearly 15 years.
This year, he paid tribute to hip hop legend Marley Marl at the BET Hip Hop Awards, watch above.
![Blair Underwood on not having any blemishes in his career or public life: - “[Laughs]That you could find!” (Photo: Austin Gorum/PictureGroup)](https://images.paramount.tech/uri/mgid:arc:imageassetref:shared.bet.us:7ce44c76-491d-11e7-a442-0e40cf2fc285?quality=0.7&gen=ntrn)
