LL Cool J

Personal Info

Known For

Acting

Known Credits

10.163

Gender

Male

Birthday

14-Jan-1968

Age

(56 years old)

Place of Birth

Bay Shore, Long Island, New York, USA

Also Known As
  • L.L. Cool J
  • LL 쿨 J

LL Cool J

Biography

James Todd Smith, better known as LL Cool J (acronym for Ladies Love Cool James), is an American rapper, songwriter, record producer, and actor. He is one of the earliest rappers to achieve commercial success, alongside fellow new school hip hop acts Beastie Boys and Run-DMC. Signed to Def Jam Recordings in 1984, his breakthrough came with his single "I Need a Beat" and his landmark debut album, Radio (1985). He achieved further commercial and critical success with the albums Bigger and Deffer (1987), Walking with a Panther (1989), Mama Said Knock You Out (1990), Mr. Smith (1995), and Phenomenon (1997). His twelfth album, Exit 13 (2008), was his last in his long-tenured deal with Def Jam. A two-time Grammy Award winner, LL Cool J is known for hip hop songs such as "Going Back to Cali", "I'm Bad", "The Boomin' System", "Rock the Bells", and "Mama Said Knock You Out", as well as R&B hits such as "Doin' It", "I Need Love", "Around the Way Girl" and "Hey Lover". In 2010, VH1 placed him on their "100 Greatest Artists Of All Time" list. In 2017, LL Cool J became the first rapper to receive the Kennedy Center Honors. In 2021, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with an award for Musical Excellence. While he first appeared as a rapper in the movie Krush Groove (performing "I Can't Live Without My Radio"), his first acting part was a small role in a high school football movie called Wildcats. He continued to work in movies from then until 1995 when he landed his own television sitcom, In the House (1995-2000). He has appeared in numerous films, including Last Holiday, Edison, Mindhunters, S.W.A.T., Deliver Us from Eva, Rollerball, Charlie's Angels, In Too Deep, Any Given Sunday, Deep Blue Sea, Halloween H20, B.A.P.S., Toys, and The Hard Way. In 2005, he returned to television in a guest starring role on the FOX medical drama House. He also guest starred on 30 Rock in 2007, and on Sesame Street 's 39th season where he introduced the word of the day, "Unanimous” and performed "The Addition Expedition" in episode 4172 (Sept. 30, 2008). As of 2011, he stars as Special Agent Sam Hanna on CBS's police procedural NCIS: L.A., a spin-off of NCIS. He was also the host of MTV's Lip Sync Battle.


Credits

Future Of The Funk Future Of The Funk (1991) Character: Self
The original rap superstar tells the story of his career, with candid interviews with the people that matter most to him. Also includes performances of "I Need Love," "Mama Said Knock You Out," "The Boomin' System" and "Around the Way Girl."
The Show The Show (1995) Character: Self
A documentary about the culture of hip-hop. Through interviews with some of hip-hops biggest names, the film makers attempt to find out why it has become so popular.
Mayweather Mayweather (2013) Character: Narrator
Documentary about the life of undefeated eight-time world boxing champion Floyd “Money” Mayweather.
Comin' Up Short Comin' Up Short (2024) Character: Self
From being a ruthless gang banger, to protecting Ice Cube's life, Shorty from the controversial rap group Da Lench Mob, reveals untold secrets of N.W.A. and why his group was attacked in a race against time to save his own life.
Sinatra 100: An All-Star Grammy Concert Sinatra 100: An All-Star Grammy Concert (2015) Character: Self
A tribute concert celebrating Frank Sinatra’s 100th birthday that promises performances from Tony Bennett, Garth Brooks, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Adam Levine, Carrie Underwood, Usher, Zac Brown, Harry Connick Jr., Celine Dion, Lady Gaga and Juanes.
Hype Williams: The Videos Vol. 1 Hype Williams: The Videos Vol. 1 (2002) Character: N/A
Hype's acclaim for skillfully imaginative visually intoxicating music videos, The Videos Vol. 1, features 10 videos depicting his creative approach and artistry unmatched while becoming celebrated by music aficionados and film enthusiasts.
Out-of-Sync Out-of-Sync (1995) Character: Jason St. Julian
A DJ and ex-con is forced to work with the police in an undercover drug sting targeting his boss.
It's Black Entertainment It's Black Entertainment (2002) Character: Self (archive footage)
A star-studded tribute (from the creators of That's Entertainment) to the contributions of Afro-Americans in film over the last century. Vanessa Williams traces the struggles and triumphs of the superstars of music and film. Among the many artists featured are: Whitney Houston, Ella Fitzgerald, Sammy Davis Jr., Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Cab Calloway, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, Ella Fitzgerald, and Little Richard, Also included are today's contemporary superstars: Snoop Dogg, Ice T, Quincy Jones, Spike Lee, Russell Simmons, and many, more! 80 minutes plus DVD bonus features.
Rapmania: The Roots of Rap Rapmania: The Roots of Rap (1999) Character: N/A
This bi-coastal simulcast concert brought together some of the most influential artists in rap for a one-time-only show of rhyming might. "Rap Mania: A Salute to the 15th Anniversary of Hip Hop" took place VIA SATELLITE at the Apollo Theater in New York City and The Palace Theater in Hollywood, and featured sets from many performers.
Yo! The Story of ‘Yo! MTV Raps’ Yo! The Story of ‘Yo! MTV Raps’ (2012) Character: Self
A provocative look into the seven-year history of the series that gave hip hop a voice and broke color barriers, integrating MTV with rap. "Yo! MTV Raps" premiered on August 6, 1988 with hosts Fab 5 Freddy, Ed Lover and Doctor Dré, and shaped the careers of many of today’s hip hop superstars, while simultaneously making groundbreaking strides in introducing hip hop to the mainstream.
A Hip Hop Minute A Hip Hop Minute (2024) Character: Self
1986 was a special year in the development of hip-hop. The Dutch TV documentary BIG FUN IN THE BIG TOWN captured this on film. And 15-year-old Pascal Garnier was immediately fascinated by New York’s young rap celebrities. Almost 40 years later, with the assistance of Bill Adler - the former publicist of the legendary Def Jam label - he tracked down the artists of that time. Roxanne Shanté, DMC and Def Jam’s creative director Cey Adams reminisce and also talk about their current lives. In his grandmother’s house, hip-hop icon LL Cool J talks about the meaning of “I Need Love”. Pure emotion - for viewers and everyone involved.
DJ Cinema Presents: Masterpiece Theater Blend Dvd DJ Cinema Presents: Masterpiece Theater Blend Dvd (2009) Character: Self (archive footage)
DJ Cinema is mixing up blends with artists like Biggie, Nas, Jay-Z, AZ, Rick Ross, Fabolous, 50 Cent and Jadakiss.
Whitney Houston: We Will Always Love You Whitney Houston: We Will Always Love You (2012) Character: Self
Famed for her extraordinary vocal range and uncanny ability to reach the emotional core of a song, We Will Always Love You pays tribute to that magnificent body of work and takes a closer look at the woman who brought it to life.Blessed with a once-in-a-lifetime talent and nurtured as an artist by legendary mentors Dionne Warwick and Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston's life had all of the makings of a modern fairytale and, in many ways, it was. The singer scored a remarkable ten #1 hit singles, and even made a successful transition to the silver screen in The Bodyguard, for which she recorded her immortal version of 'I Will Always Love You'. However, behind the beautiful face and the girl next-door charm that endeared her to millions of fans, there lurked a vulnerability that brought a searing intensity to her music and, eventually, tragedy into her life.Now, for the first time on DVD, the complete saga of Whitney Houston's glorious career.
Simply Mad About the Mouse Simply Mad About the Mouse (1991) Character: Self
Simply Mad About the Mouse collects affectionate tributes to Disney's songs from artists like the Gipsy Kings, Soul II Soul, and Kirk Whalum. Bobby McFerrin's "Siamese Cat Song," En Vogue's "Someday My Prince Will Come," and Harry Connick, Jr.'s "Bare Necessities" are among the highlights of this album. Also included are Michael Bolton's cover of "A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes" and Billy Joel's "When You Wish Upon a Star.
The Right to Remain Silent The Right to Remain Silent (1996) Character: Charles Red Taylor
Bright and eager to hit the streets in search of bad guys, rookie cop Christine Paley is disappointed when she's instead assigned to process criminals. Under the supervision of a tough but likable mentor, Christine quickly learns that hers is like no other desk job in the world.
Stevie Wonder: Songs in the Key of Life - An All-Star Grammy Salute Stevie Wonder: Songs in the Key of Life - An All-Star Grammy Salute (2015) Character: Self
"Stevie Wonder: Songs in the Key of Life — An All-Star GRAMMY Salute" will feature some of today's top artists covering songs by the legendary GRAMMY winner, as well as other archival material. In addition, various presenters will help highlight the historical impact of Wonder's songs on music and our culture. In the 56-year history of the GRAMMY Awards, Wonder is the only artist to have received Album of the Year honors in three out of four consecutive years with Innervisions, Fulfillingness' First Finale, and the seminal Songs in the Key of Life. With a catalog that is one of the richest treasure troves in American music, his songs are still revered and influential today and his longevity as one of America's — and the world's — most respected and beloved artists is well earned.
We Are the World 25 For Haiti We Are the World 25 For Haiti (2010) Character: LL Cool J
In late 2009, it was suggested to writer Lionel Richie and producer Quincy Jones that a re-cut version of "We Are the World" be re-released under the title "Live 25". Following the 7.0 Mw earthquake in Haiti in early 2010, which devastated most of the country and killed thousands of people, it was agreed the song would be re-recorded by the new generation of music artists, in the hope of reaching a new generation and benefitting the people of Haiti. Like the marketing of "We Are the World", a music video was made. Academy Award-winning film director Paul Haggis said he finished the video 12 hours early. Haitian film students were part of production crew. The official film for the song is formatted similar to the original, opening the song with the recording artists' signatures around the title, then them performing their parts in the recording studio including Michael Jackson through archive footage. The video is intercut with clips showing people in Haiti after the earthquake.
NCISverse: The First 1,000 NCISverse: The First 1,000 (2024) Character: Self
Kevin Frazier hosts a celebration of the "NCIS" franchise, including exclusive interviews with cast members and guest stars; new details about the origins of "NCIS"; a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the franchise's 1,000th episode.
MVP: Most Valuable Performer MVP: Most Valuable Performer (2018) Character: N/A
An interactive talent show to find the pro football player with the best off-the-field talent.
Kingdom Come Kingdom Come (2001) Character: Ray Bud Slocumb
When her husband keels over from a stroke, Raynelle Slocumb calls the entire clan together to remember their dearly departed. Family tensions reach a comedic boil as the wildly dysfunctional Slocumbs squabble and fight their way to the funeral.
A Home for the Holidays: The 20th Anniversary A Home for the Holidays: The 20th Anniversary (2018) Character: Self - Host
A Home For The Holidays – The 20TH Anniversary . Two time Grammy Award winner LL Cool J will host the special and introduce the inspirational stories of children adopted from foster care. Gwen Stefani, Train and Lukas Graham will each perform.
Last Holiday Last Holiday (2006) Character: Sean Matthews
The discovery that she has a terminal illness prompts introverted department store saleswoman Georgia Byrd to reflect on what she realizes has been an overly cautious life. With weeks to live, she withdraws her life savings, sells all her possessions and jets off to Europe where she lives it up at a posh hotel. Upbeat and passionate, Georgia charms everybody she meets, including renowned Chef Didier. The only one missing from her new life is her longtime crush Sean Matthews.
Q85: A Musical Celebration for Quincy Jones Q85: A Musical Celebration for Quincy Jones (2018) Character: Self
“Q85: A Musical Celebration for Quincy Jones,” is a star-studded evening that celebrates the life and legacy of the icon. In celebration of such a legendary figure, some of the biggest stars came to share in on the celebration. Performers such as Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, Brian McKnight, John Legend, Gloria Estefan, Fantasia, Charlie Wilson, Jennifer Hudson, Ne-Yo, Sam Smith, Meghan Trainor, Patti Austin, Yolanda Adams, Ledisi, and Cynthia Erivo all hit the stage to pay tribute to Quincy Jones by performing his classic works. Additionally, Oprah Winfrey, Will Smith, Danny Glover, Eddie Murphy, Dave Chappelle, LL Cool J, Rashida Jones, and Ludacris shared their personal stories of how Quincy has impacted them throughout the years. The special was taped in September at the Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.
B.A.P.S B.A.P.S (1997) Character: LL Cool J
Two clueless homegirls move to L.A. to become dancers, but instead find themselves scamming a dying millionaire to eventually become B*A*P*S (Black American Princesses).
Deliver Us from Eva Deliver Us from Eva (2003) Character: Ray Adams
Eva Dandridge is a very uptight young woman who constantly meddles in the affairs of her sisters and their significant others. Her brothers-in-law, who are tired of Eva interfering in their lives, decide to set her up with someone so she can leave them alone. They end up paying Ray, the local "playboy," $5,000 to date her. The plan goes by smoothly, but trouble comes when Ray actually falls in love with Eva.
Woo Woo (1998) Character: Darryl
Woo is a woman in control of her world. She is smart, self-confident, sophisticated and snarky. And she doesn't have any trouble attracting members of the opposite sex. But for some reason no one ever sticks around. Woo meets Tim, a paralegal who is her complete opposite. They shouldn't click. However, Woo and Tim begin to bond when a series of weird and stressful calamities hits them while they are on their first date.
You're Watching Video Music Box You're Watching Video Music Box (2021) Character: Self (archive footage)
The untold story of the world’s longest running video show, Video Music Box. A hip hop mainstay since 1983, VMB gave a platform to artists like Jay-Z, Nas and Mary J. Blige before they hit it big. Host Ralph McDaniels’ archives — amassed over nearly 40 years — reveal the show’s importance to numerous big-name musicians, as well as to the kids that grew up watching.
Deep Blue Sea Deep Blue Sea (1999) Character: Preacher
Researchers on the undersea lab Aquatica have genetically altered the brains of captive sharks to develop a cure for Alzheimer's disease. But there's an unexpected side effect: the sharks got smarter, faster, and more dangerous. After a big storm damages their remote research facility, they must fight for their lives.
S.W.A.T. S.W.A.T. (2003) Character: Deacon 'Deke' Kaye (as James Todd Smith aka LL Cool J)
Hondo Harrelson recruits Jim Street to join an elite unit of the Los Angeles Police Department. Together they seek out more members, including tough Deke Kay and single mom Chris Sanchez. The team's first big assignment is to escort crime boss Alex Montel to prison. It seems routine, but when Montel offers a huge reward to anyone who can break him free, criminals of various stripes step up for the prize.
The Hard Way The Hard Way (1991) Character: Billy
Seeking to raise his credibility as an actor and to land a role as a tough cop on a new show, Hollywood action star Nick Lang works a deal with New York City Police Capt. Brix, who by chance is one of his fans. Nick will be paired with detective Lt. John Moss and learn how to act like a real cop. But when Nick drives John crazy with questions and imitating him, he gets in the way of John's pursuit of a serial killer.
The Deal The Deal (2008) Character: Bobby Mason
Charlie Berns is a veteran Hollywood movie producer who has given up on his career and life. That is until his idealistic screenwriter nephew comes bearing the script of a lifetime and Charlie decides to give his career one final shot. The only thing standing in his way is Diedre Hearn, a sharp-witted studio executive brought in to keep Charlie in line.
Charlie's Angels Charlie's Angels (2000) Character: Mr. Jones
The captivating crime-fighting trio who are masters of disguise, espionage and martial arts are back! When a devious mastermind embroils them in a plot to destroy individual privacy, the Angels, aided by their loyal sidekick Bosley, set out to bring down the bad guys. But when a terrible secret is revealed, it makes the Angels targets for assassination.
How Bruce Lee Changed the World How Bruce Lee Changed the World (2009) Character: Self
More than just a biography, this film explores Bruce Lee's global impact to see how he has influenced all areas of popular culture including fitness, cinema, music, sport, dance, video games and philosophy. A journey across the United States, Asia and Europe, takes Shannon Lee on a trip back to her father's roots in Hong Kong and China. With unique access to the family's photographic archive, home movies and all material owned by the Bruce Lee Foundation.
Grudge Match Grudge Match (2013) Character: Frankie Brite
A pair of aging boxing rivals are coaxed out of retirement to fight one final bout -- 30 years after their last match.
A GRAMMY Salute To 50 Years Of Hip-Hop A GRAMMY Salute To 50 Years Of Hip-Hop (2023) Character: Self
A once-in-a-lifetime live concert special celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. Airing Sunday, Dec. 10, at at 8:30 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT on the CBS Television Network and streaming live and on demand on Paramount+, the two-hour tribute special will feature exclusive performances from hip-hop legends and GRAMMY-winning artists, including Black Thought, Bun B, Common, De La Soul, Jermaine Dupri, J.J. Fad, Talib Kweli, The Lady Of Rage, LL COOL J, MC Sha-Rock, Monie Love, The Pharcyde, Queen Latifah, Questlove, Rakim, Remy Ma, Uncle Luke, and Yo-Yo.
Toys Toys (1992) Character: Captain Patrick Zevo
Leslie Zevo is a fun-loving inventor who must save his late father's toy factory from his evil uncle, Leland, a war-mongering general who rules the operation with an iron fist and builds weapons disguised as toys.
The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute to the Beatles The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute to the Beatles (2014) Character: Self - Host
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Beatles' first appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, this magnificent star-studded tribute salutes the Fab Four. Appearing with Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr were guest musicians Joe Walsh, Gary Clark, Jr., Stevie Wonder, The Eurythmics, John Legend, Alicia Keys, Maroon 5, Dave Grohl, Katy Perry, Peter Frampton, and more.
Any Given Sunday Any Given Sunday (1999) Character: Julian Washington
A star quarterback gets knocked out of the game and an unknown third stringer is called in to replace him. The unknown gives a stunning performance and forces the ageing coach to reevaluate his game plans and life. A new co-owner/president adds to the pressure of winning. The new owner must prove herself in a male dominated world.
Beef Beef (2003) Character: Self (archive footage)
A documentary on the evolution of MC battles from verbal one-upmanship to street warfare.
Mindhunters Mindhunters (2004) Character: Gabe Jensen
Trainees in the FBI's psychological profiling program must put their training into practice when they discover a killer in their midst. Based very loosely on Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None.
ShowBusiness: The Road to Broadway ShowBusiness: The Road to Broadway (2007) Character: Self
ShowBusiness: The Road to Broadway is an American documentary film, directed by Dori Berinstein, a Broadway Producer, Writer and Filmmaker. Berinstein filmed each principal musical on Broadway for her project during the 2003-2004 season, for about 600 hours of initial film footage. She focused the film on four musicals, through the difficulties of pre-production, their openings, attendant publicity around the shows, and their reviews, through the 2004 Tony Award competition. The four musicals documented for the film were: Wicked, Taboo, Caroline or Change, Avenue Q.
2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony (2023) Character: Self
Celebrating the legacy and influence of the class of 2023, with performances from inductees Sheryl Crow, Missy Elliott, Chaka Khan, Willie Nelson and many more.
Big Fun in the Big Town Big Fun in the Big Town (1986) Character: Self
New York, 1986: a city of big dreams and equally big problems. Like New York itself, hip-hop music encompassed both of these human conditions. But hip-hop and its cultural birthplace shared other important characteristics, too: the desire to always be original, a hustle-to-survive ambition, and — if the stars aligned — the ability to come out on top, no matter what the odds. Big Fun in the Big Town is about hip-hop when artistry in the game was still at its center. When skills, not hype, got you your first record deal. When Run-DMC took the reins from Doug E Fresh and Grandmaster Flash, paving the way for hundreds of other hitmakers to follow. When a chart-topping LL Cool J still lived with his Grandmother. When the Latin Quarter was the club to be at on any weekend night. And when artists from all backgrounds could taste their own pop chart dreams, just beyond their reach but still seemingly attainable.
Krush Groove Krush Groove (1985) Character: LL Cool J
Russell Walker is a young, successful manager of rap performers, handling acts for the Krush Groove label, including Run-DMC and The Fat Boys. When Run-D.M.C. has a hit record and Russell needs more money to press more copies, he borrows it from a street hustler and soon regrets his decision.
Caught Up Caught Up (1998) Character: Roger
Daryl gets out of jail after 5 years. His mother has died, his girlfriend is married, and he can't find a job. His new girlfriend Vanessa, whom he meets when a gunman opens fire on them, gets him a job as a car driver. Hitmen are still after them, and Vanessa tells Daryl that this is her former lover Ahmad who wants revenge.
Halloween H20: 20 Years Later Halloween H20: 20 Years Later (1998) Character: Ronald 'Ronny' Jones
Two decades after surviving a massacre on October 31, 1978, former baby sitter Laurie Strode finds herself hunted by persistent knife-wielder Michael Myers. Laurie now lives in Northern California under an assumed name, where she works as the headmistress of a private school. But it's not far enough to escape Myers, who soon discovers her whereabouts. As Halloween descends upon Laurie's peaceful community, a feeling of dread weighs upon her -- with good reason.
2022 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony 2022 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony (2022) Character: Self
The 37th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony take place on Saturday, November 5, 2022 at Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California. This year’s Performer Inductees are Pat Benatar, Duran Duran, Eminem, Eurythmics, Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie, and Carly Simon. Judas Priest and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis will receive the Musical Excellence Award, Harry Belafonte and Elizabeth Cotten the Early Influence Award, and Allen Grubman, Jimmy Iovine, and Sylvia Robinson the Ahmet Ertegun Award.
Slow Burn Slow Burn (2005) Character: Luther Pinks
A district attorney (Ray Liotta) is involved in a 24-hour showdown with a gang leader (LL Cool J) and is, at the same time, being manipulated by an attractive assistant district attorney (Jolene Blalock) and a cryptic stranger.
Wildcats Wildcats (1986) Character: Rapper
Molly is a high school track coach who knows just as much about football as anyone else on the planet. When a football coach's position becomes vacant, she applies for the job, despite snickers from fellow staff members and her former husband.
Edison Edison (2005) Character: Deed
In the troubled city of Edison, a young journalist, his jaded editor, and an honest investigator from the district attorney's office join forces to gather evidence against corrupt members of an elite police unit.
Biggie: I Got a Story to Tell Biggie: I Got a Story to Tell (2021) Character: Self - Hip-Hop Artist (archive footage)
Christopher Wallace, AKA The Notorious B.I.G., remains one of Hip-Hop’s icons, renowned for his distinctive flow and autobiographical lyrics. This documentary celebrates his life via rare behind-the-scenes footage and the testimonies of his closest friends and family.
In Too Deep In Too Deep (1999) Character: Dwayne Gittens / God
Drug lord Dwayne Gittens rules Cincinnati with an iron fist. No wonder he's known as "God" on the streets. Determined to break Gittens' stranglehold on the city is undercover cop Jeffrey Cole. But as Cole takes on an assumed identity to penetrate Gittens' criminal empire, he makes a disturbing discovery -- he kind of likes being a gangster.
One World: Together at Home One World: Together at Home (2020) Character: Self
A global broadcast & digital special organized by Global Citizen and the World Health Organization featuring comedians, musicians, and actors to raise funds in support of front line health workers in the global response to COVID-19.
Rollerball Rollerball (2002) Character: Marcus Ridley
In this fast action-packed thriller, Jonathan, Marcus, and Aurora compete in a dangerous, fierce sport called Rollerball. Although, Johnathan and Marcus try to quit, cruel and vindictive promoter Alexi Petrovich encourages them to still participate.
Touch Touch (1997) Character: LL Cool J
At the discovery of his ability to work miracles, Juvenal becomes a media sensation, but now he's prone to those who want to exploit him.



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