The hip-hop comedy House Party may never have starred Kid n’ Play, director Reginald Hudlin says. In a People exclusive, Hudlin revealed that the 1990 film originally eyed another music duo for its leads.
The movie, now considered a classic, launched the careers of Christopher “Kid” Reid and Christopher “Play” Martin. But Hudlin says New Line Cinema first approached Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff for the parts.
“We were really thinking about someone with a bigger name,” Hudlin told People.
Hudlin said the studio suggested Smith and Jeff as a way to leverage their fame and to settle a legal matter tied to a music sampling lawsuit.
“We entertained the idea,” Hudlin said. “But their manager chose other opportunities.”
That decision opened the door for Kid n’ Play, who Hudlin says brought an authentic energy to the film.
“The vibe they had was genuine,” he said. “That’s what made the movie feel like a real party.”
Studio Vision vs. Authenticity
At the time, Kid n’ Play were best known for their music, not for acting. Hudlin said New Line executives were cautious about casting a duo without major film credits.
“They wanted stars people already knew from movies or TV,” Hudlin said. “But I knew these guys had something special.”
Hudlin said he pushed for Kid n’ Play because their personalities fit the script’s spirit. He also noted that House Party was conceived as a modest film that grew into a larger cultural moment.
He recalled early conversations with studio executives that centered on finding the right blend of humor, music and vibe.
“Everyone was looking for a formula,” Hudlin said. “But what made House Party work was how real it felt.”
House Party went on to become a sleeper success, combining comedy, dance and hip-hop culture. The film’s impact reached beyond its box-office returns, influencing later urban comedies and 1990s pop culture.
Hudlin said seeing new generations discover the movie “means everything.”
He also praised co-star Tisha Campbell as one of the most experienced actors on set, lending depth to the cast.
“It was a fresh, enthusiastic group,” Hudlin said. “And that electric mix is what people remember.”
The film’s eventual alignment with Kid n’ Play, he said, proved the right creative choice.
“When you look back, their chemistry carries the movie,” Hudlin said.