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The casting of Chris Tucker as Smokey was a pivotal moment for both the film and Tucker's career. Initially, DJ P was slated to play the character, which was loosely based on his own life. However, after Ice Cube witnessed Tucker’s dynamic performance on the stand-up comedy show "Def Comedy Jam," producers were convinced to cast Tucker, marking his big break. The role not only propelled Tucker into the spotlight but also gave birth to a beloved character that has lived on in memes and pop culture.