The Man On The Moon's Hollywood Takeover: 15+ Essential Kid Cudi Movies And TV Shows (Updated 2025)
Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi, better known as Kid Cudi, has successfully transitioned from a Grammy-winning musical innovator to a serious, in-demand Hollywood actor, director, and producer. This career evolution is no longer a side project; it is a full-fledged second act, marked by a diverse and often critically acclaimed filmography. As of December 2025, his work spans everything from indie horror to major Netflix blockbusters and animated spin-offs, proving his versatility across all genres.
The rapper, famous for his albums like Man on the Moon and hits like "Pursuit of Happiness," is now actively shaping the cinematic landscape, both in front of and behind the camera. With major new projects like the *Knuckles* limited series and his highly anticipated directorial debut, Teddy, his acting career is poised for its biggest year yet, making this the perfect time to explore his essential movies and TV show appearances.
Kid Cudi: Complete Biographical Profile
Before diving into his film and television appearances, understanding the man behind the music and the roles is essential. Scott Mescudi’s journey from Cleveland to international stardom informs much of his artistic output.
- Full Name: Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi
- Stage Name: Kid Cudi
- Date of Birth: January 30, 1984
- Place of Birth: Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Occupations: Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Actor, Director, Screenwriter
- Active Years (Acting): 2010–Present
- Notable Acting Debut: How to Make it in America (2010–2011)
The New Era of Scott Mescudi: Recent and Upcoming Projects (2024–2025)
Kid Cudi's latest and future projects demonstrate a commitment to challenging roles and creative control, cementing his status as a multifaceted Hollywood entity. His involvement in major franchises and his move into directing are the biggest indicators of his focus on his film career.
1. Directorial Debut: The Highly Anticipated Teddy (Netflix)
One of the most significant upcoming projects is the Netflix film Teddy, which marks Mescudi's feature directorial and screenwriting debut. He will also star in the movie.
- Title: Teddy (also referred to as *When The Light Dies* in some announcements)
- Role: Director, Writer, and Star
- Genre: Described as a horror-romance
- Plot Details: The film is a semi-autobiographical story based on a character from his hit song, "Pursuit of Happiness." Mescudi has stated he believes the movie will help people in the same way his music has.
- Production Note: The project is co-produced by Jay-Z, highlighting its high-profile nature.
2. Joining the Sonic Universe: Knuckles (2024 Limited Series)
In 2024, Mescudi stepped into the world of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, joining the cast of the Paramount+ limited series Knuckles.
- Role: Recurring role (Character details are largely undisclosed, but he is part of the main cast)
- Significance: Mescudi expressed that landing the role was a "dream come true," referencing his lifelong connection to the *Sonic* franchise.
3. The Action-Thriller Turn: Silent Night (2023)
In 2023, Mescudi took on a serious action role in the John Woo-directed, dialogue-free action-thriller, Silent Night.
- Role: Detective Dennis Vassel
- Plot Context: The film centers on a father (played by Joel Kinnaman) seeking revenge for his son's death. Mescudi's character, Detective Vassel, is a key figure in the investigation.
A Deep Dive into His Diverse Filmography: From Indie to Blockbuster
Kid Cudi’s acting resume is surprisingly varied, featuring roles in major studio comedies, independent horror films, and prestige television dramas. This eclectic mix showcases his commitment to growing as an actor and taking on projects that resonate with his artistic sensibilities.
The Blockbuster and Prestige Roles
Mescudi has proven he can hold his own alongside A-list talent in high-profile projects, adding significant topical authority to his film career.
- Don't Look Up (2021): In this star-studded Netflix satirical disaster film, Mescudi played DJ Chello, a famous rapper who is in a relationship with Ariana Grande’s character, Riley Bina. His on-screen performance of the song "Just Look Up" was a notable highlight.
- Westworld (2020): Mescudi appeared in the third season of the acclaimed HBO sci-fi series, playing the role of Francis.
- We Are Who We Are (2020): He took on a significant dramatic role in this HBO-Sky Atlantic miniseries, directed by Luca Guadagnino, portraying Richard Poythress.
- Need for Speed (2014): His role as Benny, a former racer and tech whiz who flies surveillance for the protagonist, was an early major film role that introduced him to a wider action film audience.
- Crater (2023): A Disney+ sci-fi adventure film where he played a supporting role, further diversifying his genre portfolio.
Independent and Horror Film Appearances
Mescudi has a strong affinity for the horror and indie film scene, often choosing roles in projects that push creative boundaries.
- X (2022) and Pearl (2022): He was a key part of Ti West’s critically praised horror franchise. In X, he played Jackson Hole, a cameraman in the adult film crew. His involvement lent significant buzz to the indie horror sensation.
- James White (2015): A critically acclaimed independent drama where he played Nick, a close friend of the title character. This role was noted for showing his dramatic potential.
- Meadowland (2015): He appeared alongside Olivia Wilde in this drama, playing a character named Jason.
The Foundation: Early Career and Breakthrough TV Roles
Kid Cudi's initial foray into acting was primarily through television, which laid the groundwork for his later film success.
- How to Make it in America (2010–2011): This HBO comedy series is often cited as Mescudi's breakout acting role. He played Domingo Brown, a young hustler and aspiring fashion designer. The role was critically well-received and established his acting credibility beyond his music career.
- Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013): He had a cameo appearance as a character named Dustin.
- Entourage (2010): An early guest appearance in the final season of the HBO hit.
The Creative Producer: Animation and Voice Work
Mescudi has also leveraged his creative talents in animation, often blending his music and acting careers.
- Entergalactic (2022): This was a landmark project for Mescudi. The Netflix animated musical special was based on his album of the same name. He co-created, executive produced, and starred as the voice of the main character, Jabari. The project earned an Emmy Award nomination, showcasing his ability to lead a major creative endeavor.
- Trolls Band Together (2023): He provided the voice for the character Clay in this animated musical sequel, demonstrating his appeal to family audiences.
- House Party (2023): Mescudi appeared as himself in this reboot of the classic comedy, blending his real-life persona with his on-screen presence.
Scott Mescudi's journey from "Man on the Moon" rapper to a formidable Hollywood director and actor is one of the most compelling career shifts in modern entertainment. With a slate of new projects like the semi-autobiographical Teddy and major franchise appearances in the Knuckles series, his filmography is rapidly expanding. Fans and film critics alike are eagerly awaiting his next moves, confirming that Kid Cudi is not just a musician who acts, but a serious and versatile creative force in the world of movies and TV shows.
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