Nelly

When it comes to his contribution to film and television, Grammy-winning rapper Nelly has proven most prolific in the realm of soundtracks. With hit songs like "Hot in Herre" and "Ride Wit Me," his works have appeared on more than 30 soundtracks since the release of his debut studio album "Country Grammar" in 2000. His rapping prowess ultimately led to his acting debut in 2001 with a supporting part in "Snipes," a gritty showbiz thriller in which Nelly plays a volatile rap star called Prolifik who is struggling to complete his latest album.

Looking for something new, Nelly tried his hand at comedy with a one-off role on the sketch show "Cedric the Entertainer Presents." By 2005, his widespread fame led to him co-starring with Adam Sandler in the remake of the Burt Reynolds' football-centered comedy "The Longest Yard." Nelly pulled double duty on the production, also contributing two songs ("Errtime" and "Fly Away") to the movie's soundtrack. Though critically panned, the film was a rousing box office success, which encouraged Nelly to continue to balance his music career with his acting ambitions. Following the release of his fifth solo album, "Brass Knuckles," Nelly snagged a recurring role on the gritty cop drama "CSI: NY" playing suave club owner and sometime informant Terrence Davis.