On March 31, 2006 ATL hit theaters, leaving a lasting impact on both the audience, as well as its cast and crew. Directed by Chris Robinson in his feature debut, the film followed Rashad (played by Clifford “T.I.” Harris) and his friends as they navigated their final year of high school in Atlanta, balancing responsibility, ambition, and the pull of their environment. Set against the backdrop of Georgia’s capitol, the film offered a look at a specific moment in life—one where choices begin to carry real consequences.
Over time, ATL has grown into a cult favorite, embraced for its authenticity, its soundtrack, and the way it captured the spirit of Atlanta. It also introduced several new faces to film audiences, including T.I., Lauren London, Evan Ross, and Big Boi, all stepping into their first major roles. Alongside them, a mix of rising talent and established actors helped shape a story that continues to resonate two decades later.
As the film turns 20, we take a look back at the cast who brought ATL to life—and where their journeys have taken them since.
The film’s main character, and its narrator. Born and raised in Atlanta, he and his group of friends navigate life in this Southern coming-of-age story. As the older brother of Ant, he tries to steer him clear of the easier path to the streets.
Since the release of ATL, Clifford “T.I.” Harris has risen to become one of the most influential rappers in Southern hip-hop. Credited with the subgenre of trap music, T.I. has sold over 15 million records, and won 3 Grammy Awards. As husband and father of 6, he’s now gearing up to release his final album Kill The King later this year.
Rashad’s younger brother. Very ambitious, but struggles to find his way as a teenager growing up in Atlanta.
ATL marked Ross’ film debut. He has since starred in the films Pride, Mooz-lum, and The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 and Part 2. Ross is the son of Diana Ross, and is currently the father of two.
In the film, New New was Rashad’s love interest and John Garnett’s daughter.
Prior to ATL, London appeared in music videos for artists such as Tyrese, Ludacris, Pharrell, and Snoop Dogg. She went on to star in films such as This Christmas, Without Remorse, and You People. She has two children—Kameron Carter and Kross Ermias Asghedom.
In Chris Robinson’s film, Esquire was Rashad’s childhood best friend. He was extremely smart—hence the nickname—and was a huge fan of New New’s father, John Garnett.
Long has had a successful career in television following 2006, appearing in shows like Power Book II: Ghost, Games People Play, and Lena Waithe’s The Chi.
Teddy was one of Rashad’s close friends, and created custom grills in Atlanta.
Weaver was already an industry veteran by the time ATL was released. As a child star, voiced Simba in The Lion King, portrayed a young Michael Jackson in The Jacksons: An American Dream, and starred in Thea and Smart Guy. Now, he plays Rashaad Marshall in The Chi.
Marcus is the drug dealer Ant begins to work for. He serves as the antagonist of the film, as he plans to lure Ant from his brother Rashad for his own profit.
The rapper/producer is best known as 1/2 of the iconic rap duo Outkast. He continued to release music after his film debut, and he performed at the Super Bowl LIII halftime show as a guest of Maroon 5. In 2025, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside friend and collaborator André 3000.
Erin’s father and the businessman that Esquire looks up to. He is unaware of the fact that Esquire is lying about who he really is, although they are from the same walk of life.
In a career spanning almost 50 years, David continues to work to this day, becoming a highly sought-after voice actor, and starring in shows like Abbott Elementary and the upcoming film, Spider Man: Brand New Day.
Rashad and Ant’s uncle and guardian. When Rashad and Ant fall out about Ant’s drug dealing, George says things to Rashad he doesn’t mean but they later make up.
A seasoned veteran in the film industry, Mykelti is best known for playing Benjamin Buford “Bubba” Blue in the classic film Forrest Gump. He also starred in Waiting to Exhale, Ali, and Troy’s brother in Fences. He can now be seen in the upcoming film Is God Is.
