As many of you know, this Sunday, March 9th, will mark the 11 year anniversary of the untimely death of Biggie Smalls. Appropriately, it was announced earlier today that shooting for the big screen movie on his life will officially begin later this month. With the announcement, we also have learned that none other than BK native rapper Gravy has landed the lead role in playing B.I.G. You can read a portion of the full press release below:

"NOTORIOUS, the screen version about the life of rapper Christopher Wallace a.k.a. The Notorious B.I.G., will begin on March 24, 2008 in and around the five boroughs of New York. The film stars multiple award winner Angela Bassett as Christopher’s mother Voletta Wallace, Derek Luke as Sean Combs, Anthony Mackie as Tupac Shakur and introducing Jamal [Gravy] Woolard as The Notorious B.I.G. …George Tillman Jr. is set to direct… “Finding Big was a task in itself and I’m honored that so many young men came out to audition for the role,” said Voletta Wallace. “However, it was Jamal’s charming personality, warm spirit, wonderful sense of humor and beautiful smile that won my heart. He is a talented and charismatic actor and I am excited that he will bring Christopher’s character to the big screen.” The film also stars up and coming actors Antonique Smith, Naturi Naughton, Dennis White and Julia Pace Mitchell."

In more news regarding Biggie, a new tribute track leaked today featuring a slew of rappers titled "Can I Speak To Biggie". The track features 50 Cent, Bizzy Bone, Bobby Valentino, Chingy, Maino, Chris Notez and Hav Boy. Don't ask me who Notez & Hav Boy are because I have no clue. The track has nothing to do with Diddy or Bad Boy and will probably be picked up by your local radio station throughout the weekend.