Common offers thanks for movie career

NEW YORK, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Chicago rapper Common has offered thanks to directors Joe Carnahan and Ridley Scott for helping take his burgeoning Hollywood film career to the next level.

The New York Post reported that the 34-year-old rapper recognized Carnahan and Scott for their part in getting him roles in their respective films, "Smokin' Aces" and "American Gangster."

Speaking about "Aces," Common spoke about his excitement at being tabbed by Carnahan to work alongside actors Andy Garcia and Ray Liotta in the crime drama, the Post said.

"The director, Joe Carnahan, brought me back in for a second look, and a few days later I got the call," he said. "Man, I was jumping up and down on my bed like a little kid. Being able to work with so many actors that I respect means the world to me."

Likewise, the "Be" rapper thanked Scott for allowing him to share screen time with famed actors Russell Crowe and Denzel Washington on the set of "Gangster."

"I just have to thank God for the chance (Ridley Scott) gave me to work with (Washington) and (Crowe). 'American Gangster' is an incredible movie -- a true story of Frank Lucas, the Harlem drug lord of the 1970s."