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BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. - There once was a time when rapper LL Cool J believed that the only way to success was through his music. After his initial hit, "I Need A Beat, " life changed drastically for the accomplished musician, who has diversified his talents beyond musical notes to the silver screen.
The 35-year-old performer, who hasn't turned his back on his music, has expanded his credentials. This week, LL will reach a milestone in his flourishing acting career when the new romantic comedy, "Deliver Us From Eva, " opens nationwide. It is the first major lead film role for the multi- talented performer, who took the role of Ray Adams because of the quality of the movie. In addition to the movie's talented director, Gary Hardwick, and an outstanding acting ensemble - Gabrielle Union, Megan Good, Duane Martin, Mel Jackson, Robinne Lee, Essence Atkins and Dartanyan Edmonds - the film's crossover potential was another factor that appealed to him.
We sat down recently with the gifted performer in Beverly Hills' Four Seasons Hotel, where he and the cast of "Deliver Us From Eva" were participating in a promotional tour.
The handsome, suave young actor, who often attracts wandering eyes with his trim waistline, bulging biceps and good looks, wants moviegoers to look beyond his physique and discover his dynamic acting ability. In making this decision, LL has decided to forgo the name of LL Cool J and will use his given name in film projects to eliminate whatever negative stereotypes that might be associated with rap music.
"I don't want a 50-year-old White guy in Oklahoma to feel like he's not going to be able to relate to my movie...