[Photo: Prince Williams] Aubrey Drake Graham, widely known as Drake, has made an indelible mark on the music industry. However, before his rise as a global hip-hop and R&B sensation, he first captured the hearts of audiences as a child actor on the Canadian television series 'Degrassi: The Next Generation.' This article delves into Drake's early beginnings in acting, shedding light on his formative years and the unexpected path that led him from the small screen to chart-topping success. Born on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, Canada, Drake was exposed to the arts early in his life, thanks to the artistic inclinations of his family. His father, Dennis Graham, was a drummer for rock 'n' roll star Jerry Lee Lewis, and his mother, Sandi Graham, worked as an educator and florist. Despite his parents' divorce when he was just five, Drake's dual heritage and diverse cultural background played a crucial role in shaping his artistic perspective. Drake's foray into acting began when he was only 15 years old. After a friend's father, an acting agent, offered to represent him, Drake landed his first significant role on 'Degrassi: The Next Generation,' a revival of the 1980s Canadian teen drama series 'Degrassi.' He portrayed Jimmy Brooks, a charismatic and affable high school basketball star whose life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes paralyzed from the waist down after a school shooting. 'Degrassi,' known for tackling gritty, real-life issues that resonated with teens, served as a critical platform for Drake. Over the next seven years, from 2001 to 2008, Drake's character, Jimmy, became central to many of the show's pivotal storylines, including those dealing with disability, relationships, and the challenges of adolescence. This role not only showcased Drake's acting ability but also endeared him to a broad audience across Canada and the United States. While acting on 'Degrassi,' Drake harbored a growing passion for music. Inspired by rap giants like Jay-Z and Clipse, he spent much of his spare time honing his musical skills. His character on 'Degrassi' even mirrored this musical inclination, as Jimmy Brooks aspired to […]

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