In early 2023, a social media video stirred controversy in the entertainment world when a man known as Love Benji claimed to be the “hidden” biological son of rap legend and actor LL Cool J (born James Todd Smith). With allegations ranging from non-disclosure agreements to parental neglect, the story has ignited debates—leaving fans and observers questioning what is truth and what is showmanship.

The Allegation Emerges

On a viral Instagram video, Love Benji declared that during the COVID era (2020–2021), he was coerced into signing an NDA that would keep his existence secret from the public. According to him, upon learning the truth from his mother, he felt compelled to share it.

They made me sign the paperwork… they didn’t want it to go public,” he said. “James Todd Smith… that’s what I know him as… But many of you probably know him as LL COOL J… He blocked me from all social media.”

Benji also claimed that LL Cool J occasionally sends him about$200 a month, but insists it’s about more than money—it’s about a connection.

I’m thankful he’ll send me every now and then, probably $200 a month… but it ain’t about the money… He blessed me with the charm, the ladies, the charisma.”

The Official Response

LL Cool J’s camp was swift to respond. A source told HipHopDX, “The claim in this video is false. It looks like the creator was doing a skit and joking about this and we can confirm there is zero truth to the claim.”

Public and Media Reaction

Multiple outlets picked up the story shortly after the video surfaced:

The Source published Benji’s video and statements, reinforcing the narrative of a “hidden” son blocked on social media and allegedly silenced via NDA.

HotNewHipHop framed the claim amid a broader media trend of celebrity paternity rumors and questioned its credibility.
VladTV and AceShowbiz echoed the story, noting that Benji bore a strong resemblance to LL Cool J and describing the NDA claim in detail.

MediaTakeOut added that Benji stated he was blocked once he turned 18 and had received only sporadic payments, framing the relationship as distant and financially minimal.

Past vs. Present: Family Matters

Contrasting this claim, LL Cool J’s family life has long been public: he’s been married to Simone Johnson since 1995 and together they have four children. The couple has maintained a stable, long-term marriage far from controversy.
There’s no record of any prior paternity dispute involving him—making this claim especially jarring to fans.

Is a DNA Test Coming?

The title suggests a DNA test might be forthcoming—but as of now, no DNA test has been confirmed or publicly arranged. There’s no legal filing, court order, or credible indication that any testing is being planned.

Without mutual agreement or a legal compel, DNA tests—especially when both parties are adults—generally remain private and discretionary.

Reddit and Public Sentiment

On Reddit, the reaction was cautious and dubious, with many users expressing skepticism:

His rent must be due for him to come up with this nonsense.”

This reflects a broader trend: when celebrity paternity claims emerge online, especially without verification, they’re often met with suspicion and labeled as attention-seeking.

Concluding Thoughts

The sensational headline aside—LL Cool J HIDING From His Alleged Son | DNA Test Coming”—amounts to a dramatic framing without factual basis. While Love Benji’s emotional testimony is compelling, there’s no independent confirmation, no legal motion, no verified DNA plan, and a categorical denial from LL Cool J’s team.

For now, this narrative remains in the realm of speculation and rumor. Should legal steps be taken—or DNA testing requested by either party—future developments may shed light. Until then, the story is anchored on one person’s claims, countered by the force of official denial and lack of corroborating evidence.