LL Cool J, a heavyweight legend in hip-hop, has etched his name into history as the first rapper ever to receive the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors in 2017. In 2021, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, further solidifying his status as a cultural icon. But how has this trailblazing success translated into his financial empire? Let’s dive into the life, career, and net worth of one of hip-hop’s most celebrated figures.
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For over three decades, LL Cool J has been a dominant force in the entertainment world. With albums like The Force, Todd Smith, and Authentic, he’s not just a rapper but a cultural icon. His breakout single, I Need a Beat, in 1985 set the stage for a career that would span music, acting, and entrepreneurship. Fans naturally wonder: just how much wealth has this hip-hop legend amassed?
A Quick Look at LL Cool J’s Life
| Full Name | James Todd Smith |
| Famous As | LL Cool J |
| Gender | Male |
| Date of Birth | January 14, 1968 |
| Age | 56 years old (as of 2024) |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Place of Birth | Long Island, New York, USA |
| Current Residence | New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Height | 6'1" (187 cm) |
| Weight | 211 lbs (96 kg) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Mother | Ondrea Smith |
| Father | James Ndunya |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife | Simone Smith |
| Children | 4 |
| School | Hillcrest High School, Campus Magnet High School |
| College | Northeastern University |
| Profession | Rapper, Actor |
| Social Media | Instagram, X (Twitter), TikTok, Facebook |
How Old is LL Cool J?
Born on January 14, 1968, in Long Island, New York, LL Cool J is 56 years old as of 2024. Over the years, his career has evolved from the world of rap to acting, making him one of the most versatile and enduring figures in entertainment.
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The Story Behind the Name LL Cool J
In a candid interview with Today on September 7, 2024, LL Cool J revealed that his iconic name was inspired by a close friend. The name "LL Cool J" stands for "Ladies Love Cool James," a moniker that perfectly encapsulates his appeal to fans worldwide.
"I had a buddy, Playboy Mikey D, who suggested I be 'ladies' love.' I wanted the girls to love me, so I just named myself that. It stuck, and now it's a part of who I am."
Breaking Down LL Cool J’s Net Worth
As of 2024, LL Cool J's net worth is estimated at a staggering $120 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth and Hot New Hip Hop. This impressive figure is a testament to his enduring career as both a rapper and actor. But how did he build such an empire?
How Much Does LL Cool J Make from NCIS?
LL Cool J’s role as Sam Hanna on NCIS: Los Angeles has been a major contributor to his wealth. According to Celebrity Net Worth, he earns approximately $350,000 per episode. With roughly 24 episodes per season, that amounts to around $8.4 million annually. Since joining the show in 2009, LL Cool J has become a household name in television.
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