Ne-Yo's Acting Career Takes Off in 'Red Tails'

Ne-Yo is a high-flying hero in his latest acting role. The R&B gentleman plays Andrew “Smoky” Salem, a tobacco-chewing fighter pilot, in the George Lucas-directed Red Tails, based on the true story of African-American World War II pilots Tuskegee Airmen.

In the latest stills from the film, which opens in theaters nationwide on January 20, Ne-Yo appears alongside an all-star cast including Cuba Gooding Jr. and Terrence Howard.

“It was definitely a learning experience shooting this movie,” the 32-year-old singer told Rap-Up TV. “I developed a love and appreciation for the acting thing, but it will never take the place of music.”

Watch a trailer below.