From the start of the notorious gangsta-rap group N.W.A to founding his own production studio, O'Shea Jackson has risen through the ranks of music and Hollywood with a prolific, freewheeling career.

The 46-year-old actor, rapper, and producer, known as Ice Cube, wrote many of the controversial, political raps N.W.A was known for. Songs such as "F--- the Police" earned the watchful eye of the FBI, but the group only became more popular.

After royalty disputes, however, Ice Cube left and started his own successful music career.

He made his film debut in "Boyz 'N the Hood," which launched him to an acting career that has included horror films, comedies, and even family films.

Last year, he produced the critically acclaimed "Straight Outta Compton," a biopic about N.W.A that's nominated for an Oscar for best original screenplay.

As of last year, Ice Cube is estimated to be worth $140 million. His newest film, "Ride Along 2," came out Friday.

Here's a look at Ice Cube's Hollywood rise: