The Truth About DMX's Acting Career

We all know DMX (real name Earl Simmons) as a successful rapper, who is known for his hard-hitting tunes. His fan-favorite single "Party Up (Up In Here)" was nominated for a Grammy and his 1999 album And Then There Was X "went platinum five times," according to ABC News.

The rapper suffered from an overdose and heart attack on April 2, 2021 and is currently hospitalized in White Plains, N.Y., per the outlet. His attorney Murray Richman says he is in "grave condition," and he is on life support.

On April 5, the Ruff Ryders to the Rescue Foundation will hold a vigil outside White Plains Hospital at 5 p.m., according to the Associated Press. "We ask that you please keep Earl/DMX and us in your thoughts, wishes, and prayers as well as respect our privacy as we face these challenges," the family said in a statement. They added DMX is facing "serious health issues."

DMX was in the process of making a movie when this terrifying incident occurred. Keep reading for more about his acting career.

DMX has had an impressive acting career

DMX (a.k.a. Earl Simmons) sometimes trades his microphone for a movie script. He appeared in the 1998 film Belly, via the Associated Press. He also starred in 2000's Romeo Must Die alongside Jet Li and Aaliyah.

The rapper continued to make his mark on Hollywood with a role in Exit Wounds (2001). He teamed up with Li again in 2003 for Cradle 2 the Grave. DMX also made a splash on the small screen with DMX: Soul of a Man, his reality show that premiered on BET in 2006 (via ABC News).

It seems like DMX was flipping through scripts in the recording studio! In 2017, the rapper joined forces with Kingdom Reign Entertainment to produce In the Dog House, a docu-series following his release from rehab, work on his new album, and improving relationships with his 15 children and their mothers, according to Variety.

DMX couldn't wait to give fans an inside look at his life. "I'm just excited to get back out there and show my fans that I'm still a force to be reckoned with in hip hop, and invite them into my vast world of spirituality and growth," he said.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse and mental health, please contact SAMHSA's 24-hour National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).