Life in Film: LL Cool J

Uncle L celebrates his birthday on Jan. 14.

Krush Groove (1985) - Shortly after catching a street buzz with the release of his debut single, “I Need a Beat,” LL Cool J made his film debut with a cameo in the hip hop classic Krush Groove. L’s brief scene — playing himself aggressively auditioning for a record deal — blew audiences away, not only turning him into rap music’s first solo superstar but also a potential movie star.(Photo: Crystalite Productions)
The Hard Way (1991) - Following the immense success of his 1990 LP Mama Said Knock You Out, the Queens-bred MC expanded his film acting chops, playing Detective Billy in the comedy The Hard Way. The film starred Michael J. Fox as a movie star who studies for a police role by riding shotgun with the NYPD.(Photo: Universal Pictures)
In the House (1995) - At a time when rap music artists like Will Smith and Queen Latifah were jumping toward successful careers as TV actors, LL did the same when his show In the House hit the air. Playing Marion Hill, a former Oakland Raiders running back who finds himself in financial difficulties and forced to rent part of his home out to a single mother (Debbie Allen) and her two children, LL becomes lovable (and a respected actor) for mainstream audiences.(Photo: NBC)Woo (1998) - In this comedy about a gorgeous and extraverted woman (Jada Pinkett Smith) who meets insecure and straight-laced law clerk Tim (Tommy Davidson), the rapper stars as Darryl. The movie also includes Dwayne Martin and Dave Chappelle.(Photo: Gotham Entertainment Group)

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Krush Groove (1985) - Shortly after catching a street buzz with the release of his debut single, “I Need a Beat,” LL Cool J made his film debut with a cameo in the hip hop classic Krush Groove. L’s brief scene — playing himself aggressively auditioning for a record deal — blew audiences away, not only turning him into rap music’s first solo superstar but also a potential movie star.(Photo: Crystalite Productions)

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