The legacy of Friday is getting a new generation spin—this time with an NFL twist.
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 cult classic, as part of the team’s 2026 NFL Draft campaign.
Released across the Rams’ digital platforms ahead of the draft, the short film pays homage to the original comedy directed by F. Gary Gray, while infusing it with football culture, team branding, and a strong sense of Los Angeles pride.
In ‘Thursday,’ Jackson Jr. and Tucker step into roles inspired by Craig and Smokey, recreating iconic moments from the original film—down to the legendary “damn” reaction and the unforgettable run-ins with the neighborhood bully. This time, that role is hilariously reimagined by Terry Crews, who channels Deebo (originally played by the late Tiny Lister) with a football-inspired twist.
The cast also includes appearances from rapper YG, Rams players Kevin Dotson, Jared Verse, and Byron Young, along with radio personality Big Boy. Dotson even riffs on one of the film’s most quoted lines, tying it back to draft-day stakes.
In a full-circle moment, the production 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.
According to Rams chief marketing officer Kathryn Kai-ling Frederick, the campaign is about more than 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 in Hollywood Park.
The short film has already gained traction online, pulling in strong engagement across platforms and proving that Friday’s influence still hits—decades later.
And while ‘Thursday’ is a playful tribute, it also arrives as anticipation builds for a long-discussed fourth installment in the Friday franchise. With names like Mike Epps teasing development updates, the franchise may not be done just yet.
For now, ‘Thursday’ stands as a smart, culture-forward blend of film nostalgia, sports marketing, and legacy—bridging generations in a way that feels both intentional and fun.