Few entertainers have mastered both music and television like LL Cool J. From pioneering hip-hop to starring in one of TV’s longest-running crime dramas, he has built a multi-million-dollar fortune.
But how much does he really make from his acting career? And what are his biggest money-makers outside of music?
Let’s break down LL Cool J net worth, his earnings from NCIS: Los Angeles, business ventures, and financial decisions that have kept him relevant for decades.
LL Cool J Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | James Todd Smith |
| Popular Name | LL Cool J |
| Birth Date | January 14, 1968 |
| Age (as of 03/02/2025) | 57 years |
| Birthplace | Bay Shore, Long Island, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American, Barbadian descent |
| Education | Northeastern University, Andrew Jackson High School (Queens), Hillcrest High School (Queens) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Simone Johnson (since 1995) |
| Children | Samaria Leah Wisdom Smith, Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith, Nina Simone Smith, Italia Anita Maria Smith |
| Dating | Previously dated Kidada Jones (1992–1994) |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | James Nunya, Ondrea Smith |
| Height | 1.87 meters |
| Net Worth | $120 million |
| Source of Wealth | Music, Acting, TV Hosting, Business Ventures |
What is the Net Worth Of LL Cool J in 2025?
As of 2025, LL Cool J’s net worth is estimated at $120 million. His fortune comes primarily from his acting salary on NCIS: Los Angeles, where he earned $350,000 per episode, adding up to about $8.4 million per season.
He also made millions from his music career, launching multi-platinum albums under Def Jam Recordings.
Compared to other hip-hop moguls, his wealth places him behind Jay-Z and Dr. Dre but ahead of many veteran rappers who struggled to maintain financial longevity.
His ability to transition from music to acting and business has solidified his place among the most financially successful entertainers.
Related Personalities & Companies
- Def Jam Recordings
- NCIS: Los Angeles
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
- Grammy Awards
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Todd Smith clothing line
- Boomdizzle.com
- Jay-Z
- Dr. Dre
- Will Smith
Looking for more about hip-hop millionaires? Check out this list of the wealthiest entertainers.
LL Cool J Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Does He Make Money?
LL Cool J has built his fortune through multiple income streams:
- Music Royalties – Hits like Mama Said Knock You Out and I Need Love continue to generate revenue through streaming and licensing.
- Acting Salary – His NCIS: Los Angeles paycheck was $350,000 per episode, making it his biggest source of income.
- Hosting & TV Appearances – He earned additional millions from hosting Lip Sync Battle and the Grammy Awards.
- Business Ventures – He founded Todd Smith clothing line and co-created Boomdizzle.com, a digital music platform.
- Endorsements – Over the years, he has partnered with major brands, boosting his revenue.
How Much Does He Earn from Acting and Television?
His role as Special Agent Sam Hanna on NCIS: Los Angeles spanned over a decade, making it a significant part of his wealth.
With $350,000 per episode, his total earnings from the show exceeded $150 million over the years.
Beyond NCIS, he made money from:
- Movies – Deep Blue Sea, Any Given Sunday, S.W.A.T., and Halloween H20.
- TV Hosting – Lip Sync Battle added millions to his fortune.
- Appearances & Cameos – He’s been featured in various reality and award shows, earning lucrative appearance fees.
What Are His Biggest Music Earnings?
LL Cool J dominated hip-hop in the late ‘80s and ‘90s with albums that sold millions. His most successful ones include:
- Radio (1985) – Platinum-certified debut album.
- Bigger and Deffer (1987) – Sold over 2 million copies, featuring the hit I Need Love.
- Mama Said Knock You Out (1990) – One of his most successful records, marking a career revival.
- G.O.A.T. (2000) – Debuted at #1 on Billboard and went platinum.
Royalties from these records, plus streaming revenue, keep his music income steady.
What Businesses and Investments Does He Have?
Beyond music and acting, LL Cool J expanded into business:
- Todd Smith Clothing Line – A fashion brand focused on urban wear.
- Boomdizzle.com – A digital music and social networking platform for artists.
- Real Estate – He has invested in multiple properties across the U.S.
His smart financial moves ensure that his wealth continues to grow outside of entertainment.
How Has His Financial Success Evolved Over the Years?
LL Cool J’s financial journey is a lesson in reinvention. He transitioned from a rap star in the ‘80s to an A-list actor in the 2000s, securing long-term earnings. His early investments in Def Jam Recordings and his ability to adapt to new opportunities have kept his fortune stable.
What Awards and Recognitions Has He Earned That Contribute to His Brand Value?
- Grammy Awards (2x winner) – Boosted his music credibility.
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2021 inductee) – Cemented his legendary status.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame (2016) – Increased his global recognition.
- Kennedy Center Honors (2017) – The first rapper to receive this honor.
These accolades enhance his marketability, allowing him to secure high-paying deals.
How Does He Manage His Wealth?
LL Cool J is known for his financial discipline. He:
- Invests in businesses and real estate.
- Limits extravagant spending.
- Donates to charities, including Jump & Ball Foundation, supporting youth sports.
This strategy ensures his wealth remains sustainable for the long term.
Conclusion
LL Cool J’s wealth is the result of decades of hard work, adaptability, and smart financial choices. Whether through music, acting, or business, he has consistently secured multi-million-dollar deals.
His financial journey offers valuable lessons in diversification and longevity in entertainment.
Want to explore more financial stories? Visit AndoMoney for in-depth celebrity net worth analysis!
