In a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the fragility of life, the cast of the iconic 1991 film “New Jack City” has seen a dramatic evolution over the last 34 years, with many members facing heartbreaking challenges and losses. As we approach 2025, the question looms: Who among the beloved cast is still with us?

The film, a cultural touchstone that showcased the raw realities of crime and survival, featured stars like Wesley Snipes, Chris Rock, and Ice-T, who have since navigated the tumultuous waters of fame. Snipes, once soaring as Nino Brown, faced a turbulent legal battle that landed him in prison, yet he continues to act, reflecting on his past with a sense of resilience. Meanwhile, Chris Rock, now a comedy titan, grapples with personal struggles that echo his character’s tragic arc.

Sadly, the shadows of loss loom large. Bill Nunn, who portrayed the charismatic “Dah-Dah-Dah-Man,” succumbed to leukemia in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of warmth that belied his private battles. Nick Ashford, a legendary songwriter and actor, passed away in 2011 after a courageous fight against throat cancer, his musical legacy enduring even as he lost his voice.

As we recount these stories, we honor the journeys of those who have passed, like Bill Cobbs and John AIA, whose lives were marked by personal tragedies and professional struggles. Others, like Ice-T and Mario Van Peebles, continue to thrive, albeit with the scars of their pasts.

The stark contrast between the film’s vibrant portrayal of life and the often tragic realities faced by its stars serves as a somber reminder of the fleeting nature of fame and the enduring impact of personal trials. As the clock ticks towards 2025, we reflect on the lives of these actors, celebrating their contributions while mourning those we have lost. Who will we remember as the years go by? The answer is as complex as the film itself.