May 30, 2006
French philosopher and writer Bernard-Henri Lévy shares his observations on race and class. Rapper-actor LL Cool J explains the reasons he's been able to remain in the game.
Bernard-Henri Levy
A philosopher, activist and filmmaker, Bernard-Henri Lévy is also one of the most respected writers in Europe. He's the author of dozens of books, including the best-selling American Vertigo and Left in Dark Times. His films include the documentaries Bosna! and A Day in the Death of Sarajevo. Lévy co-founded the antiracist group SOS Racism and served on diplomatic missions for the French government. He started his career as a war reporter and became famous as founder of the New Philosophers group.
LL Cool J
Before segueing to acting, Grammy-winning hip-hop vet LL Cool J helped bring rap from the underground to the mainstream. However, he never forgot his roots. The Queens, NY native escaped an abusive upbringing and his own bullying attitude by falling in love with rap. By age 11, he was writing lyrics and, at 17, got his musical break. He's since had several platinum-selling albums and acting credits that include the sitcom In the House and the films Charlie's Angels and Rollerball. "Exit 13" is his new CD.


