Happy birthday! LL Cool J turns 58 today

  • By Lori Macatee
  • Washington
  • Last updated on

The iconic and legendary rapper turns 58 on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026.
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LL Cool J is celebrating his 58th birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, he is one of the most acclaimed rappers of his generation.

Popular rapper-actor-business man LL Cool J (Mama Said Knock You Out, I Need Love, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of himself hidden from view. At 58th birthday, he remains a man of many facets.

LL Cool J, a cultural icon

Born James Todd Smith in Bay Shore on January 14, 1968, his career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in American history. LL Cool J's not just a great rapper, he's an inspiration, an icon and a very charming man. At this point in his career, there seems to be little James hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for LL Cool J as he promises more to come. After all, he's only 58.

Happy Birthday, James, you're the best!

LL Cool J career in pictures

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