**LL Cool J Returns to the NCIS Universe with New Spin-off**
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LL Cool J, the multi-talented rapper and actor also known as James Todd Smith, opens up about his return to the world of “NCIS” in the upcoming spin-off, “NCIS: New York.” The new series is set to premiere on October 6 and marks a significant milestone in LL’s career, as he revisits a character he has portrayed for the past 17 years.
Filming in his native New York City has brought a sense of nostalgia to the 58-year-old artist, whose journey began in the 1980s with the release of his debut album, “Radio.” LL speaks freely about how the city has transformed over the decades, particularly noting changes in the social fabric, with subway commuters now glued to their phones instead of reading newspapers. “The world has evolved,” he reflects, acknowledging the rapid pace of change that New York City has experienced since his rise to fame.
LL Cool J’s role as Special Agent Sam Hanna in “NCIS: Los Angeles,” as well as appearances in “NCIS” and “NCIS: Hawai‘i,” have established him as a cornerstone of the franchise. He emphasises the rarity of such opportunities in a career, stating, “Not many people get Rambos, Rockys and Sam Hannas.” He approaches his character with excitement and a clear intention to deliver a compelling performance, taking it one day at a time during the filming process.
Transitioning from music to acting wasn’t initially part of LL’s plan. He reveals that acting was once a strategic move to broaden his reach as a musician. By landing roles in popular television and film, he aimed to attract more listeners to his records. That strategy has evidently worked in his favour, as he reflected on the duality of his career, noting, “It is still a way for people to discover me as an artist in all facets of what I do.”
In addition to acting, LL Cool J has made a name for himself on stage as a host and performer. He has hosted the Grammy Awards five times and led the popular competition show “Lip Sync Battle” for five seasons. He views his re-entry into the spotlight with “NCIS: New York” as an opportunity to create joy for audiences. “I think this is going to be a fun show for people,” he says, hopeful that viewers will find an escape from their daily lives through the characters featured in the series.
Despite his busy filming schedule, LL makes it a point to prioritise self-care. He describes his unwinding ritual after a long day: sitting alone in his car with music playing, allowing himself moments of reflection. “I just jump in that car and just grab a towel and put it behind my neck, and put on some music and just lay back and just vibe,” he shares. This calmness, he says, is a result of years spent acclimatising to the demands of his career.
Even though he is immersed in his acting for now, LL has not abandoned his musical roots. The 2021 inductee into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame expresses a strong desire to continue creating music and producing work that resonates with people. “I want to keep creating things I think are fun, keep doing things that move me, keep touching people in various ways,” he affirms, demonstrating his commitment to his craft.
Ultimately, LL Cool J’s experiences have taught him a valuable lesson: “Dreams don’t have deadlines.” He believes that the essence of life lies in exploring one’s potential, stating, “There is no finish line. It really is a journey.” This philosophy encapsulates the spirit with which he approaches both his artistic endeavours and life itself.
“NCIS: New York” is set to premiere on Tuesday, October 6, at 9 p.m. ET on CBS and will also be available for streaming on Paramount+. As fans eagerly anticipate his return to the franchise, LL Cool J stands as a testament to the timeless nature of passion and creativity.