LL Cool J's Family Legacy: 5 Shocking Secrets And The Untold Story Of His 30-Year Marriage

Rapper, actor, and entrepreneur LL Cool J, whose real name is James Todd Smith, has built one of the most enduring legacies in entertainment, but it’s his family life that often captures the most fascination. As of December 2025, the hip-hop icon and his wife, Simone I. Smith, are celebrating over 30 years of marriage, a remarkable feat in the celebrity world. Their four children are now adults, each forging a unique path in business, music, and real estate, proving that the Smith family legacy extends far beyond the spotlight of Hollywood and the music charts. This article delves into the latest updates, the inspiring survival story of Simone Smith, and the surprising careers of their accomplished children.

The Smith family has always prioritized privacy while sharing moments of strength and resilience. From battling a life-threatening illness to navigating the challenges of raising children away from the glare of fame, their story is one of unwavering commitment. The most recent and profound update involves LL Cool J opening up about a deeply personal childhood trauma, adding a layer of depth to the public's understanding of the man behind the microphone.

The Smith Family: Full Biography and Profile

• LL Cool J (James Todd Smith):
• Born: January 14, 1968 (Age 57 as of Dec 2025)
• Occupation: Rapper, Actor, Record Producer, Author, Entrepreneur.
• Known For: Two-time Grammy Award winner, first rap artist to amass ten consecutive platinum-selling albums, starring as Agent Sam Hanna on NCIS: Los Angeles.
• Wife: Simone I. Smith (née Johnson):
• Married: 1995 (Celebrating 30+ years of marriage)
• Occupation: Jewelry Designer, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist.
• Key Fact: 20-year survivor of a rare bone cancer (chondrosarcoma).
• Children (The Smith Legacy):
• Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith: Born 1989 (Age 36). Eldest son, works in creative production.
• Italia Anita Maria Smith: Born 1991 (Age 34). Daughter, successful real estate agent, mother (making LL Cool J a grandfather).
• Samaria Leah Smith: Born 1996 (Age 29). Daughter, fashion designer and entrepreneur (Samaria Leah brand).
• Nina Simone Smith (Nina-Symone): Born 2001 (Age 24). Youngest daughter, R&B singer/artist.

The Inspiring Resilience of Simone I. Smith: A 20-Year Cancer Survivor

One of the most powerful and defining aspects of the Smith family narrative is Simone I. Smith's courageous battle with cancer. In 2004, she was diagnosed with Stage III chondrosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer in her leg.

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The diagnosis required a 15-hour surgery to replace her tibia with her fibula, followed by a long, arduous recovery process that included learning to walk again.

Simone's journey from patient to 20-year survivor is a testament to her strength and faith. She has since turned her experience into a charitable business venture.

A Sweet Touch of Hope: Jewelry with a Mission

As an entrepreneur and jewelry designer, Simone launched her signature line, "Simone I. Smith Jewelry."

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Her most iconic piece is the "A Sweet Touch of Hope" lollipop pendant, which was inspired by her recovery. A portion of the proceeds from the collection goes toward supporting cancer research and health equity initiatives.

Most recently, Simone has kept her brand fresh and relevant, launching the "SIS x MISA Denim and Diamonds" collaboration with stylist Misa Hylton, blending high fashion with her signature sparkle.

The Smith Children: Forging Their Own Unique Paths

Unlike many celebrity children who gravitate toward the immediate spotlight of acting or mainstream music, the four Smith children have carved out distinct, professional careers that showcase their individual talents and entrepreneurial spirit, building a true "Smith Family Legacy."

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Italia Smith: The Grandfather-Maker in Real Estate

Italia Anita Maria Smith, the eldest daughter, has chosen a career that keeps her away from the entertainment industry. She is a highly successful real estate agent, affiliated with Keller Williams.

In addition to her professional career, Italia is a dedicated mother, making LL Cool J and Simone proud grandparents. This focus on family and a stable, professional path highlights the values instilled by her parents.

Samaria Smith: Fashion Entrepreneur and NFL Power Couple

Samaria Leah Smith has made a name for herself in the fashion world. She is the founder and creative force behind her own thriving fashion brand, "Samaria Leah."

The brand is known for its unique designs, and Samaria herself has become a recognized figure in the industry. Furthermore, Samaria's personal life has also made headlines, as she is currently in a high-profile relationship with NFL star Jordan Fuller, creating a new power couple dynamic in the sports and fashion spheres.

Nina-Symone: The R&B Artist Stepping Out of Hip-Hop's Shadow

The youngest daughter, Nina Simone Smith, is the only one to pursue a career directly in the music industry, but she has deliberately chosen a different genre than her father.

Performing under the name Nina-Symone, she is focusing on R&B, aiming to create her own sound and identity separate from the legendary hip-hop legacy of LL Cool J. Her dedication to carving out a unique space in a competitive industry demonstrates her artistic independence.

Najee Smith: The Private Creative

Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith, the eldest son, maintains the most private profile of the four siblings. While he is known to be involved in creative work and production, he has consciously avoided the public scrutiny that comes with being a celebrity child.

His choice for a more behind-the-scenes role and a focus on building his own creative path, rather than "coasting on his dad's fame train," is a quiet but powerful statement of independence.

3 Decades of Love: The Surprising Secrets to Their Enduring Marriage

LL Cool J and Simone I. Smith's marriage is one of the most celebrated in Hollywood, having lasted for over 30 years since they tied the knot in 1995. Their longevity is a source of curiosity, and the couple has been open about the simple yet profound rules that keep their relationship strong.

1. Mutual Respect is Non-Negotiable: Both LL Cool J and Simone emphasize that mutual respect is the foundation of their bond. They believe in keeping it simple and always valuing each other's space and opinions.

2. The "Grace to Grow": Simone has stressed that there is "no blueprint" for a successful marriage, but that giving each other "grace to grow" is essential. This philosophy acknowledges that both partners will change over three decades, and the marriage must evolve with them.

3. The "Two TV" Rule: In a lighthearted but practical piece of advice, LL Cool J once credited separate televisions as a key to marital harmony. He explained that having "a couple TVs" allows them to enjoy their own preferences—whether it's his wife watching reality TV or him needing a break—without conflict.

The Recent Revelation: LL Cool J Opens Up About Childhood Trauma

In a powerful and recent update in December 2024, LL Cool J discussed a deeply personal and traumatic event from his childhood that shaped his life. He bravely recounted the story of his father shooting both his mother and his grandfather in a jealous rage.

This revelation provides a profound context for the strength and resilience he has shown throughout his career and in his family life. The willingness to share such a painful memory, even decades later, highlights his commitment to honesty and healing.

This recent discussion, along with his wife's cancer journey, underscores the fact that the Smith family's success is not just about fame and fortune, but about overcoming adversity and building a loving, stable environment rooted in faith and encouragement.