It is no secret that MGM has been focusing on developing their franchises, both through reboots (Ben Hur, Red Dawn, The Taking of Pelham 123) and sequels (007, The Hobbit, Hot Tub Time Machine). It comes as no surprise then, that the studio is creating a third installment of the popular Barbershop films. It has been 10 years since the release of Barbershop 2: Back in Business, but with the success of Ice Cube’s recent acting endeavors (21 Jump Street, Ride Along) their timing couldn’t be better.
Deadline reports that MGM is currently in negotiations with the rapper-turned-actor to reprise his role as barbershop owner Calvin Palmer. The studio is also looking to bring back Cedric the Entertainer and Queen Latifah.
While there are currently no writer or director attachments, Ice Cube will be producing along with Matt Alvarez, Bob Teitel and George Tillman Jr.
Cube will also be producing the film Straight Outta Compton, which tells the story of NWA, the 1980’s hip hop group that he formed with Dr. Dre and Eazy-E among others. NWA pioneered the gangsta rap movement and helped to launch the careers of its aforementioned founders. It is regarded today as one of the most influential hip hop groups of all time. Dr Dre, Eazy-E’s widow Tomika Wright and Matt Alvarez will produce alongside Cube.