Tupac Shakur was known for his romantic escapades in the early 90s. A new book claims that Janet Jackson was so concerned about his reputation that she insisted on having him tested for AIDS before their kissing scene in “Poetic Justice.”
Author Jeff Pearlman wrote “Only God Can Judge Me: The Many Lives of Tupac Shakur,” where he shares this revealing story. Filming “Poetic Justice” in 1993 brought Tupac and Janet together, but their off-screen chemistry was less than perfect. Pearlman notes that while Janet was a dedicated professional, Tupac often showed up late and was disconnected from the production.
In Pearlman’s account, the tensions escalated just days before their scene. Tupac made lighthearted comments about “overwhelming” Jackson with his kisses, which raised Janet’s concerns. She expressed her worries to the film’s producer, Steve Nicolaides, wanting assurance about his health before getting intimate on screen.
Nicolaides stated that Janet, who was engaged to René Elizondo Jr. at the time, didn’t want to “swap saliva” with Tupac without knowing he was “healthy and clean.” When Nicolaides approached Tupac with the request, the rapper reacted unfavorably, reportedly launching into an angry tirade and refusing the test.
It’s worth noting that in the early 90s, the AIDS crisis was a pressing issue, stirring fears and misconceptions in society. Nicolaides empathized with Janet for her request, given Tupac’s wild persona and the health concerns of the times.
Despite the behind-the-scenes turmoil, “Poetic Justice” performed well at the box office, raking in $27 million against a budget of around $14 million. Even today, the film remains a beloved classic among fans.
This anecdote offers just a glimpse into Tupac’s complex life, and Pearlman’s book promises even more intriguing stories and insights. As the discussion about public figures and their health continues in today’s world, reflections on past events like this one serve as important reminders of the cultural shifts and challenges that shape our lives.
For more on the impact of health concerns in the entertainment industry, check out [CDC’s resources on HIV and AIDS](https://www.cdc.gov/hiv). Knowing the history can help us understand how far we’ve come and what still needs to change.
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