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The Big L Biopic (Put It On) Canceled: A Journey Cut Short of Production

In this pause, we anticipate the resumption of Big L's story on a platform that befits his legacy. For now, we extend our gratitude to Jesse (Daze) Swindell and Kevin Townley and the entire cast and staff for their valiant efforts, and we eagerly await the day when Big L's tale graces the silver screen, a tribute befitting the indelible mark he left on the world of hip-hop.

Actor/ rapper Sean Jenkins as Big L in record shop signing original album for store owner

In the world of entertainment, projects often go through numerous ups and downs before reaching the big screen. Such is the case with the highly-anticipated biopic of the legendary rapper, Big L, titled "PUT IT ON." Unfortunately, after a series of setbacks and challenges, the project has been officially canceled. Let's take a closer look at the journey behind the scenes.

James (Big Lee right hand man) , Jesse (Daze) Swindell film producer, Leroy Phinazee Jr. (lil Lee) Executive producer

In 2018, the hip-hop world was buzzing with excitement when news broke about the Big L biopic titled "Put It On." The script, masterfully crafted by Jesse (Daze) Swindell, received assistance from Big L's nephew, Leroy Phinazee Jr., and his brother, Don, along with other close family and friends. However, amidst personal tragedies and various challenges, the project faced unexpected setbacks, leading to its eventual cancellation. A Tragic Turn of Events: The year 2019 brought heart-wrenching news as Leroy Phinazee Jr., also known as Lil Lee, was tragically shot and killed on the very block where his father and uncle, Big Lee and Big L, respectively, met their untimely fates.

Put It On Movie cast and staff

Lil Lee's death, coupled with online feuds involving members of D.I.T.C (Diggin' in the Crates Crew), added to the already mounting difficulties faced by the biopic. A New Partnership: Realizing the need to overcome these obstacles, Jesse (Daze) Swindell decided to seek a new path forward. He teamed up with film producer Kevin Townley, hoping that this partnership would breathe new life into the project.

The path to bringing Big L's story to life proved to be an uphill battle.

Their collaboration aimed to resurrect the "Put It On" biopic and honor the legacy of the late rap legend, Big L. Casting Call and Progress: In the midst of the 2020 pandemic, despite the challenging circumstances, a casting call was held in the South Bronx at a local studio to search for the perfect actors to portray the lead characters in "Put It On." Sean Jenkins was selected to embody the late rap legend, receiving the esteemed co-sign from Big L's childhood friend, Herb McGruf

Sean Jenkins as Big L and the real Herb McGruff on set

With McGruff's endorsement, the project began to gain momentum. An Ambitious Sizzle: The passion behind the project was evident as the full cast, including portrayals of Big L, Fat Joe, Jay-Z, Big Pun, Lord Finesse, and Biggie Smalls, came together. The team shot 85% of an impressive sizzle reel on the actual streets of Harlem, capturing the essence of the era and the spirit of Big L. Over the course of a week, they meticulously crafted a 15-minute preview, showcasing their dedication and talent.

Big L and Biggie portrayed in 139st park

Obstacles and Heartbreak: Unfortunately, the road to success was not without its hurdles. The project encountered yet another setback when Big L's brother, Don, and the Big L estate decided against moving forward. Other documentaries and the sale of Big L's masters complicated the clearance process, leading to disagreement among family members involved.

Sean Jenkins as Big L, and Chavar Smalls as Big Lee posted in Harlem on 140th & Lenox

Despite the cast's dedication and enthusiasm, the project hit a major roadblock. The End of the Road: With years of frustration mounting, Jesse (Daze) Swindell made the difficult decision to throw in the towel, acknowledging that the project's journey had come to an end. However, in a final tribute to Big L's legacy, the sizzle reel, crafted with love and passion in 2020, will be released to the public before 2023 ends. Looking to the Future: Though "Put It On" may have met an unfortunate end, the story of Big L and his impact on the hip-hop community remains relevant and deserving of a cinematic portrayal. Jesse (Daze) Swindell, despite the challenges faced, still holds hope for a future film or documentary that will honor the late rapper's legacy.

Sean Jenkins as Big L and Tammi Bailey as Gilder (Pinky) Terry, Big L’s mother, on set filming his final words to her

Conclusion: The cancellation of the Big L biopic "Put It On" leaves a lingering sense of what could have been. As we bid farewell to one cinematic endeavor, we hold onto the optimism that the Big L estate, in collaboration with passionate filmmakers and the support of New York's hip-hop royalty, will produce something extraordinary in honor of the legendary lyricist.

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