Ja Rule is joyfully preparing for a brand-new chapter in his life: becoming a grandfather.

The rapper and actor, 49, recently spoke with PEOPLE during the Dream360 grand opening celebration at American Dream in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where he shared how thrilled he is about the upcoming arrival. The event, held on Nov. 13, was hosted by Ja Rule in partnership with his whiskey brand, Amber & Opal, and showcased the venue’s entertainment-forward experience, including Topgolf Swing Suites, a stylish cocktail lounge with live DJs, and theatrical hibachi dining.

Reflecting on the milestone, Ja Rule expressed deep gratitude and happiness. He explained that welcoming a grandchild feels especially meaningful, noting that his first child was his daughter—and now, his first grandchild will also be a girl.

“It truly feels like a blessing,” he said, adding that the experience has already softened his heart even more. According to the artist, becoming a grandfather brings a renewed sense of warmth and excitement that he is eagerly embracing. He admitted he can’t wait to meet his granddaughter and watch her grow.

Ja Rule also shared how becoming a grandparent reconnects him with an earlier stage of life. With all of his children now grown, he and his wife are looking forward to having a baby around the house again. He described the idea as both nostalgic and refreshing, calling it a fun new phase that they’re excited to enjoy together.

The rapper first revealed the pregnancy news publicly in October during an appearance on The Sherri Show. At the time, he jokingly reacted to the announcement, saying that the title “grandfather” still sounded unreal to him. He went on to describe the heartfelt way his daughter, Brittney Atkins, surprised him with the news.

According to Ja Rule, Brittney presented the sonogram in a gift box along with a card announcing that he and his wife were becoming grandparents. The moment was captured on camera, allowing them to relive their genuine reactions. He recalled the experience as emotional, unexpected, and incredibly special.

Brittney, 30, is expecting her first child with her husband, Tevin Aitken. The couple previously celebrated their marriage with a lavish Great Gatsby–themed wedding, and fans have followed their journey with excitement as they prepare to grow their family.

Already thinking ahead, Ja Rule has even chosen what he wants his grandchild to call him. Drawing inspiration from hip-hop legend The Notorious B.I.G., he revealed—with laughter—that he plans to go by “Big Poppa.” The moment was made even more memorable when host Sherri Shepherd surprised him with a custom cardigan embroidered with the nickname, which he proudly embraced.

As he balances music, business ventures, and family life, Ja Rule says becoming a grandfather feels like a meaningful reward—one that adds joy, perspective, and a new sense of purpose to his life.