Who is Big Smoke supposed to be?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Big Smoke, whose real name is Melvin Harris, is a high-ranking member of the Grove Street Families who later abandoned and joined the Ballas in the popular video game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. He is voiced by Clifton Powell and is believed to be inspired by Jamal Woolard, an American actor and rapper, showcasing the complex and intriguing character development in the GTA series.
Character Background and Inspiration
Big Smoke’s character plays a significant role in the storyline of GTA: San Andreas, interacting closely with the main protagonist, Carl Johnson (CJ). Understanding who Big Smoke is supposed to be requires delving into his background, motivations, and the inspiration behind his character.
FAQs
The following questions and answers provide deeper insights into Big Smoke’s character and his place within the GTA universe:
- Q: Is Big Smoke a Balla? A: Yes, Big Smoke was initially a high-ranking member of the Grove Street Families but later betrayed them to join the Ballas, working closely with the C.R.A.S.H. Unit.
- Q: Did CJ regret killing Big Smoke? A: Despite Big Smoke’s betrayal, CJ seemed to regret having to kill him, indicating a deep-seated loyalty and friendship that preceded the betrayal.
- Q: Who is CJ based on? A: CJ’s physical appearance is modeled after Young Maylay, a Los Angeles-based rapper and actor who also provided the character’s voice and motion-capture work.
- Q: Is Franklin CJ’s son? A: No, Franklin is not CJ’s son; each game in the GTA series is set in alternate timelines, according to Rockstar Games.
- Q: How many girlfriends did CJ have? A: In GTA: San Andreas, CJ can date six possible girlfriends, with two becoming girlfriends through the storyline.
- Q: Does CJ regret killing Ryder? A: CJ seems to regret killing Ryder, as it was a life-long friend he had to eliminate, despite Ryder’s betrayal and involvement in his mother’s death.
- Q: Why did CJ leave San Andreas? A: CJ left San Andreas for Liberty City after his brother’s death, seeking a better life and becoming involved in car theft for Joey Leone.
- Q: Who killed CJ’s mom? A: CJ’s mom was killed in a drive-by shooting intended for Sweet, orchestrated by the Ballas and corrupt LSPD officers Tenpenny and Eddie Pulaski.
- Q: Why did Ryder betray CJ? A: Ryder betrayed CJ for the promise of a better life, similar to Big Smoke, seeking wealth and status by any means.
- Q: Why did Big Smoke turn evil? A: Big Smoke turned against his friends due to greed, seeing an opportunity to become rich and famous without considering the consequences of his actions.
- Q: Why did Sweet betray CJ? A: Sweet felt CJ wasn’t taking the GSF seriously enough and held him partly responsible for the tragedy that befell their family and gang.
- Q: Why does Franklin sound like CJ? A: Franklin’s voice actor, Shawn Fonteno, is the cousin of Young Maylay, who voiced CJ, explaining the vocal similarity.
- Q: Why is CJ not in GTA 5? A: CJ’s adventures took place in the 3D universe, while GTA V is set in the HD universe, making CJ’s presence in GTA V impossible according to the game’s storyline.
- Q: Who is OG Loc in real life? A: OG Loc is a character in GTA: San Andreas, voiced by Jonathan Anderson, and is a supporting antagonist in the game.
- Q: What happens to CJ at the end of GTA: San Andreas? A: The game ends on a positive note for CJ, with the Grove Street Families regaining their footing, and CJ becoming a successful entrepreneur with various business ventures.
Conclusion
Big Smoke’s character adds depth to the GTA: San Andreas narrative, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for power and wealth. Through his story and the FAQs provided, readers gain a comprehensive understanding of Big Smoke’s role in the game and his significance to the protagonist, CJ, and the overall GTA universe.