Notorious - Notorious Actor 'Has Criminal Past'

The rapper who plays NOTORIOUS B.I.G. in new biopic NOTORIOUS was arrested in 2008 over a domestic dispute with his wife, according to a new report.

Brooklyn-based hip-hop star Gravy - real name Jamal Woolard - has found fame with his portrayal of late rapper Notorious B.I.G., real name Christopher Wallace, in the film.

But court paperwork obtained by the New York Post apparently shows the new star was charged with misdemeanour assault, menacing and harassment after a domestic incident last September (08).

A source tells the publication that Woolard's spouse, Trina Younger, phoned emergency services after the pair had an altercation when Woolard returned home late.

But Younger's mother, who is currently living with the couple as Woolard promotes the film, is adamant there was no violence involved.

She says, "I know he wouldn't hit her. He's not like that. Most definitely, they have a good relationship. That's impossible, I think it's made up. He's a loving husband and I never heard of anything like that before in my life."

The couple has been married for seven months and together for five years.