DMX has reported for duty on set, officially making his long awaited return to the acting world. As previously reported, the veteran rapper has been cast for a role playing a detective in an upcoming psychological thriller.

Per TMZ, filming for Chronicle of a Serial Killer has officially begun in New York City. DMX plays a detective in the film, starring opposite Brendan Sexton, Tara Reid, Eric Roberts and Aly Mang.

X’s character, Detective White, is tasked with hunting down a serial killer played by Sexton. The rapper’s role was previously offered to Michael Madsen but the actor was ousted from the film after being arrested for DUI back in March.

Adding to the excitement, TMZ also shared the first on-set photo of DMX and the film’s director, Steve Stanulis.

“When my casting director suggested DMX, it immediately resonated with me as a perfect fit,” Stanulis previously shared with HotNewHipHop of the decision to cast the New York native in Madsen’s place. “I have no doubt he is going bring a different dynamic to the role and I’m excited to have him part of this talented cast. I’m looking forward to working with him and everyone else this summer.”

Previously, DMX has acted in films such as Romeo Must Die, Exit Wounds and Fresh Off the Boat, among others.

Earlier this spring, after serving jail time for tax fraud, DMX surprised fans at Coachella, making a guest appearance during Murda Beatz’s set. The month prior, he was tapped to perform at REVOLT House in Austin, Texas, giving a highly anticipated return to the stage that further reassured fans of his status as an absolute icon.

Take a look at the first glimpse of DMX happy at work on the set of Chronicle of a Serial Killer below.