Who is Ice-T?

Ice-T is an American rapper and actor who has been in the entertainment industry since the 1980s. His real name is Tracy Lauren Marrow and he was born in Newark, New Jersey. He was raised in South Central Los Angeles and began his music career as a member of the rap group C.I.A. in the early 1980s. Since then, he has released several albums and starred in films such as New Jack City (1991) and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (1999-present).

Early Life

Ice-T was born on February 16, 1958, in Newark, New Jersey. He was raised by his mother, Alice Marrow, who worked multiple jobs to support her family. As a child, he was exposed to a variety of musical genres such as punk rock, disco and funk, which later influenced his own music. He attended Crenshaw High School but dropped out at the age of 16 after becoming involved with gang activity.

Music Career

Ice-T began his music career in 1981 as a member of the rap group C.I.A. In 1982, he released his debut solo album Rhyme Pays which included the hit single “6 ‘N The Mornin’” – one of the first hip hop tracks to feature explicit lyrics about street life. In 1987, he released his second album Power which featured the controversial single “Cop Killer” – a song that stirred up public outrage over its violent content. Despite the controversy, it was a commercial success and has since been cited as one of the greatest rap songs of all time.

Acting Career

In 1991, Ice-T made his acting debut in the film New Jack City alongside Wesley Snipes and Chris Rock. He went on to star in other films such as Trespass (1992), Tank Girl (1995) and Johnny Mnemonic (1995). He also had a recurring role on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit as Detective Odafin Tutuola from 1999 to present. In addition to acting, Ice-T is also involved in philanthropic endeavors such as supporting charities that provide aid to disadvantaged children.

Personal Life

Ice-T has been married to model Nicole Austin since 2002; they have one daughter together named Chanel Nicole Marrow. He is also the father of two other daughters from previous relationships. Outside of his career, Ice-T enjoys playing sports such as basketball and golf.