Ice Cube and Chris Tucker's Sons Reimagine 'Friday' for LA Rams Draft Promo

O'Shea Jackson Jr. and Destin Tucker star in 'Thursday,' a clever NFL-themed take on the 1995 cult classic comedy.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:38pm

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An abstract close-up image featuring shattered glass and crumpled football equipment, conveying the gritty, high-stakes energy of the 'Thursday' short film through dramatic lighting and texture.The 'Thursday' short film blends the legacy of 'Friday' with the high-energy world of the NFL, capturing the cultural significance of both in a visually striking way.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Rams have tapped O'Shea Jackson Jr. and Destin Tucker, the sons of Ice Cube and Chris Tucker, to headline 'Thursday,' a clever reimagining of the 1995 comedy 'Friday' as part of the team's 2026 NFL Draft campaign. The short film pays homage to the original while infusing it with football culture, team branding, and a strong sense of Los Angeles pride.

Why it matters

The 'Thursday' campaign is about more than just nostalgia - it's about honoring the cultural weight of 'Friday' while connecting with fans in a meaningful way. The rollout also includes fan experiences like a draft-themed pop-up and a multi-day block party, showing the Rams' commitment to engaging their community.

The details

In 'Thursday,' Jackson Jr. and Tucker step into roles inspired by Craig and Smokey, recreating iconic moments from the original film. The cast also includes appearances from rapper YG, Rams players Kevin Dotson, Jared Verse, and Byron Young, as well as radio personality Big Boy. The production even filmed at the original 'Friday' house in Los Angeles, grounding the parody in the same cultural roots that made the original film a generational staple.

  • The 'Thursday' short film was released across the Rams' digital platforms ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

O'Shea Jackson Jr.

The son of Ice Cube, who stars in the 'Thursday' short film as a character inspired by Craig from the original 'Friday' movie.

Destin Tucker

The son of Chris Tucker, who stars in the 'Thursday' short film as a character inspired by Smokey from the original 'Friday' movie.

Terry Crews

An actor who plays a football-inspired version of the neighborhood bully Deebo, originally played by the late Tiny Lister, in the 'Thursday' short film.

Kathryn Kai-ling Frederick

The chief marketing officer of the Los Angeles Rams, who says the 'Thursday' campaign is about honoring the cultural weight of 'Friday' while connecting with fans in a meaningful way.

Mike Epps

An actor who has teased development updates for a long-discussed fourth installment in the 'Friday' franchise.

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What they’re saying

“The legacy of Friday is getting a new generation spin—this time with an NFL twist.”

— Kathryn Kai-ling Frederick, Chief Marketing Officer, Los Angeles Rams

“The rollout also includes fan experiences like a draft-themed pop-up and a multi-day block party, showing the Rams' commitment to engaging their community.”

— Kathryn Kai-ling Frederick, Chief Marketing Officer, Los Angeles Rams

What’s next

With names like Mike Epps teasing development updates, the 'Friday' franchise may not be done just yet, and fans are eagerly anticipating a potential fourth installment.

The takeaway

The 'Thursday' short film is a smart, culture-forward blend of film nostalgia, sports marketing, and legacy, bridging generations in a way that feels both intentional and fun. It showcases the Rams' commitment to engaging their fanbase and honoring the cultural significance of the original 'Friday' movie.