Simone Smith is widely recognized as the wife of entertainment icon LL Cool J, but her personal journey extends far beyond the red carpets and music awards. As an entrepreneur, jewelry designer, and cancer survivor, she has built a distinct identity grounded in business, family, and philanthropy. While celebrity spouses often remain in the background, Simone has carved out an independent space that demands equal attention.
Navigating over three decades of marriage in the public eye requires resilience, especially when combined with high-profile careers and raising a family. Beyond her marriage, Simone is best known for founding her luxury jewelry line and her long-standing partnership with the American Cancer Society. This overview examines her background, business ventures, family life, and her battle against stage III chondrosarcoma.
Early Life and Meeting LL Cool J
Born Simone Johnson in 1967 in Queens, New York, she grew up with strong community ties and family values. Her introduction to James Smith—later known as LL Cool J—happened when they were teenagers in the summer of 1987 in Queens. A mutual friend introduced them after asking Simone if she wanted to meet a guy who had a nice car and music ambitions.
The couple dated for eight years before tying the knot in August 1995. Their relationship predates LL Cool J's breakthrough commercial peak in the hip-hop industry, making theirs one of the most enduring marriages in modern entertainment history. They welcomed two children before marrying and two more afterward, balancing the volatile nature of the entertainment industry with a grounded home life.
Overcoming Cancer and Launching a Brand
In 2004, Simone faced a life-altering medical challenge when she discovered a knot on her shin. Doctors diagnosed her with stage III chondrosarcoma, a rare and aggressive type of bone cancer that develops in the cartilage. The diagnosis required intensive surgery, including bone grafting, and a grueling recovery process that tested her physical and mental strength.
Following her recovery, Simone redirected her creative energy into entrepreneurship. In 2011, she co-founded the Simone I. Smith Jewelry collection. Her signature item, the Sweet Touch of Hope lollipop pendant, was inspired by a tattoo she had on her leg which was altered during cancer surgery.
- Philanthropic Mission: A portion of the proceeds from every jewelry piece sold goes directly to the American Cancer Society.
- Awareness Campaigns: Simone travels frequently as an ambassador, sharing her survival story to encourage early detection and support patients.
- Brand Expansion: The collection has expanded from signature lollipop pendants to include faith-based jewelry, hoops, and birthstone pieces.
Family Life and Children
Simone and LL Cool J share four children: Najee, Italia, Samaria, and Nina-Symone. Raising children under the constant glare of media scrutiny can be challenging, but the couple prioritized keeping their family grounded.
- Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith: Born in 1989, their eldest son works as a professional photographer and maintains a low profile away from mainstream media.
- Italia Anita Marie Smith: Born in 1991, Italia graduated from Northeastern University with a business administration degree and works as a real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty. She is married and has children, making Simone and LL Cool J grandparents.
- Samaria Leah Wisdom Smith: Born in 1995, Samaria graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology and launched her own independent denim line.
- Nina-Symone Smith: Born in 2000, Nina chose to follow her father's footsteps into the entertainment industry, launching a career as an R&B singer under the name Nina-Symone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long have Simone Smith and LL Cool J been married?
They married in August 1995 after dating for eight years, bringing their total relationship timeline to nearly four decades.
What type of cancer did Simone Smith survive?
She survived stage III chondrosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer diagnosed in 2004 that required major reconstructive surgery on her leg.
What is Simone Smith's business?
She is the co-founder of Simone I. Smith Jewelry, a fashion-forward accessory line best known for its lollipop pendants that raise funds for cancer research.
Do Simone and LL Cool J have grandchildren?
Yes, their eldest daughter Italia has children, making Simone and LL Cool J proud grandparents who actively participate in family life.
