The late rapper Coolio recorded dialogue and music for the Hulu revival of Futurama, weeks prior to his sudden death. And as a tribute, an upcoming episode will be dedicated to the rapper.
The “Gangsta Paradise” performer made his first appearance as Kwanzaa-Bot in Futurama in the third episode of the third season, “A Tale of Two Santas”, which aired in 2001. Coolio reprised his role in Season 6’s “The Futurama Holiday Spectacular” and the straight-to-DVD film Bender’s Big Score.
Futurama executive producer David X. Cohen told TMZ that Coolio’s death left him “shocked” because the rapper recorded lines for the revival “just weeks” prior and was “producing tracks on the fly.”
Cohen said, “Coolio was one of my favorite guests. He was always totally upbeat and genuinely enjoyed coming in to record as his character Kwanzaa-bot.” He added that the episode will be dedicated to Coolio, and will feature his vocals during the end credits.
TMZ also reports that Coolio was scheduled to film an episode of Nick Cannon’s Wild ‘N Out on Tuesday, Sept. 20, but had to cancel due to travel complications.
Coolio’s death was confirmed by his manager Jarez Posey, who said the rapper died Wednesday (Sept. 28) in Los Angeles, per The New York Times. His manager, Sheila Finegan, told CNN, “We are saddened by the loss of our dear friend and client, Coolio, who passed away this afternoon. He touched the world with the gift of his talent and will be missed profoundly.”
In addition to Futurama, Coolio appeared in the animated series Gravity Falls, as well as the television shows All That, The Nanny, and Charmed. He also had two reality shows, Cookin’ with Coolio and Coolio’s Rules, which aired in 2008.
The Futurama revival is expected to premiere on Hulu in 2023.
