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T.I. Talks 'Challenge' of 'Boss' Role, Gives Scoop on 'Identity Theft' Film

Posted Aug 23rd 2012 10:30AM by Natelege Whaley
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Atlantic Records

T.I. is everywhere these days. Besides working in the studio on the release of his new album, Trouble Man, he's also been flexing his acting muscles on both TV and the silver screen.

On the Starz series "Boss," the rapper has a recurring role as Trey Rogers, a reformed gang member who has his eyes set on a career in City Hall. His bad guy-turned-politician character is not far off from his own life, but still has been a learning experience for him.

"It's a challenge," T.I. tells The BoomBox. "It's interesting and compelling. I like the show and it was just a phenomenal opportunity to work with some outstanding actors. The dynamics of the character and the art, the story, the way you deal with the courts, the way you get your credentials, it was all intriguing to me."

He also spoke on his upcoming film "Identity Theft," in which he plays a bounty hunter. The film will be coming to theaters next March.

"It's a mainstream comedy with Melissa McCarthy from 'Bridesmaids,' and Jason Bateman from 'Arrested Development,'" he reveals. "It's my first comedy. I had a phenomenal time doing it. I think it's going to be a big hit."

Besides acting, the camera follows T.I. as he lives his everyday life. The second season of his reality series, "T.I. & Tiny: The Family Hustle," airs Sept. 3. Unlike shooting for his other projects, he says the show doesn't really require work because he's just being himself.

"It's real easy," the Atlanta native explains. "It's really nothing to do there. There ain't no lines. There ain't no script to read. It's really just me living life. Cameras just capture what you do everyday. It's not a lot of work."

"Boss" airs Fridays at 9PM on Starz. "T.I. & Tiny: The Family Hustle" debuts its second season on VH1 Sept. 3.

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