Yesterday we learned the sad news that Artis Leon Ivey Jr., better known as ‘Coolio’, has died at the age of 59, leaving behind a 35-year career that even the least hip hop fans will recognize thanks to the eternal ‘Gangsta’s Paradise’; the single that was part of the soundtrack of ‘Dangerous Minds’ and that made the rapper a Grammy winner in a distant 1995.
The key to success
As expected, one of the most expected reactions to the death was that of michelle pfeiffer, who starred in the feature film directed by John N. Smith. The actress has sent her condolences through her Instagram account, where she has shared a post recalling their collaboration for the big screen.
“Heartbroken to learn of the passing of the talented artist Coolio. A life ended too soon. As some of you may know, I was lucky enough to work with him on ‘Dangerous Minds’ in 1995. He won a Grammy for his brilliant soundtrack song, which I think was the reason our movie was such a success. 30 years later it still gives me chills when I listen to it. Sending love and light to his family. Rest in power, Artis Leon Ivey Jr.”
The Return of Kwanzaa-Bot
Despite its early disappearance, according to the TMZ media, it seems that we will have one last chance to enjoy Coolio’s talent in the audiovisual medium. It will be in the ‘Futurama’ series, in which the artist has already participated, lending his voice to Kwanzaa-botthe African-American reverse of the Robot Santa Claus whose first appearance dates back to the year 2001.
The executive producer of the series David X Cohenin addition to expressing his shock, has commented that, a few weeks before, Coolio was recording his lines of dialogue for an episode that will be dedicated to him and that will close his credits with his music to give him “the best goodbye possible”.
The New episodes from ‘Futurama’ are coming to Hulu next 2023.