The final ensemble brought together Juilliard graduates, working television veterans, and green debutants to capture the volatility inside Ruthless Records:
| Actor | N.W.A Member / Figure | Prior Background | Key Audition Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| O'Shea Jackson Jr. | Ice Cube | No professional credits; USC student | Two years of intense acting coach workshops; mirrored vocal cadence |
| Jason Mitchell | Eazy-E | Kitchen cook; indie bit roles in New Orleans | Dynamic Skype reading; balanced vulnerability with volatile charisma |
| Corey Hawkins | Dr. Dre | Juilliard School; Broadway performer | Methodical studio mannerisms; technical handling of mixing boards |
| Aldis Hodge | MC Ren | Veteran television actor (Leverage, The Wire) | Commanding baritone presence and unvarnished street perspective |
| Neil Brown Jr. | DJ Yella | Stuntman and supporting character actor | Natural comedic timing; grounded dynamic among larger egos |
| Paul Giamatti | Jerry Heller | Academy Award-nominated character actor | Direct offer by Gray; portrayed Heller's genuine affection alongside financial manipulation |
