Though Mike Epps previously expressed zero interest in getting involved with this year's How High sequel, it's now been confirmed he'll reprise his role as Baby Powder in the MTV-backed continuation of the 2001 cannabis-infused cult classic.
Thursday, Deadline broke the news of Epps' return alongside a glimpse at the film's opening credits sequence. The comedian joins previously announced cast members Lil Yachty, DeRay Davis, D.C. Young Fly, Alyssa Goss, and Mary Lynn Rajskub. Special guest appearances include Lil Baby, Blac Youngsta, and Justine Skye. MTV also shared a premiere date for the original production, which is aptly slated for April 20.
The script comes from Family Guy and Futurama writer Shawn Ries, Big Mouth's Artie Johann, Workaholics' Alex Blagg, and Powerless' Neel Shah. Executive production notably features credits from Yachty and Quality Control’s Pierre Thomas and Coach K.
Speaking on his and Method Man's decision to refrain from reprising their roles in director Bruce Leddy's sequel back in October, Redman told the Grass Routes podcast they simply aren't as interested in the project as they were years ago. Additionally, certain plans were made without their input, though he has no ill feelings toward Yachty or anyone involved.
"What happened is that a branch that's under Universal decided [they were] gonna shoot this movie," he said at the time. "And they did not need permission from us because we didn't own the rights to How High." Ultimately, both Redman and Method Man were asked to appear in the film but declined the offer.
