Mahershala Ali Listened to Ka's 'Honor Killed the Samurai' to Build His New Hitman Role

Mahershala Ali walked the red carpet at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival for his new filmYour Mother Your Mother Your Mother, where he plays a devoutly religious hitman grieving the loss of his wife while trying to protect his children. Asked how he prepared, Ali didn’t name a book or a coach. He named an album:Honor Killed the Samuraiby Ka. Ali told ETalk the record“just was the right vibe and tone for this guy,”which tracks for anyone who knows how deliberate and steady Ka’s music sounds.

What makes the story heavier is that Ali wasn’t just a fan. He and Ka were friends. Ka, whose real name was Kaseem Ryan, was a captain in the New York City Fire Department, a 9/11 first responder, and one of the most respected MCs and producers in underground hip-hop, often mentioned in the same breath as Roc Marciano. He died in October 2024 at age 52. Ali said he would like to see a documentary made about Ka’s life, calling him“an extraordinary man”and“an amazing producer.”

The film, directed by Bassam Tariq and also featuring John Cho and Giancarlo Esposito, opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, Sept. 25. Until then,Honor Killed the Samuraiis right there waiting. It’s one of those records that rewards a quiet evening and a good set of headphones.

Have you listened to Ka before, or is this your first time hearing his name? Let us know in the comments.