Wait, Will Smith really do that?
Will Smith is one of the most popular and versatile actors. Over time, he became one of the highest-paid actors, and many hope that he will not retire so soon. Although he is a celebrity whose life almost everyone knows everything about, there are certainly a few more details you may not have known.
Will was born in West Philadelphia, has one brother Harry and two sisters, Ellen and Pam. But you probably knew that…
When he was 12 he started rapping at school and at home. His sister repeatedly said he was funny as he jumped around the house. As a child, his favorite rapper was Grandmaster Flash. In high school, he was nicknamed Prince because when he got into trouble, he always knew how to get out of it with the help of his charm. This nickname continued to follow him later, so the famous series was named Fresh Prince.
A job before a great career
As a teenager, Will worked with his father and helped him install refrigerators in other homes.
Kids Choice Awards
The kids really love him, and the proof is the record it holds in winning the most Kids Choice Awards.
Historical record
Did you know that he is the first actor in history who managed to act in eight films in a row, and which earned over 100 million dollars? Although almost every actor has starred in at least one bad movie, Will Smith has one of the best records.
Even Broadway
Will Smith co-produced the Fela musical with Jada Pinkett Smith, Jay Z. The production earned 11 nominations for the Tony Award. They won the award for Best Musical Sound Design, Best Musical Costume Design, Best Choreography.
Independence Day
In 1996, Will starred in the big hit Independence Day. The interpretation of his character from the film was based on Han Solo from Star Wars.
A big hit
Will and Jeff won a Grammy for the song Summertime in 1991. Thus, they became the first rappers in history to win an award. The song peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Top 100.
Most public appearances
The work of an actor does not stop after he has finished shooting a film or series, he is also obliged to appear at premieres all over the world. Will won the Guinness record for most public appearances in a time period of 12 hours.
Avoided college, but a dream come true
Will talked to his parents and admitted he didn’t want to go to college. Instead, he wanted to become a professional rapper. His parents were against it and wanted him to go to college. They thought it was the only way for him to succeed in life. Eventually, they reached a compromise, Will was given a year to become a rapper, if he failed he had to go to college. Everything that happened later is history.
First love
Before meeting Jada Pinkett Smith Will married actress Sheree Zampino in 1992. They had a son Will Smith III better known as Trey. Will and Sheree divorced three years after the wedding.
Jada Pinkett Smith
Will and Jada first met when Jada competed for the role of Will Smith’s girlfriend in the Fresh Prince series. Although Jada was not given the role, these two lovers eventually met again a few years later.
Independence Day
In 1996, Will starred in the big hit Independence Day. The interpretation of his character from the film was based on Han Solo from Star Wars.
Matrix – yes or no
Will was the first choice for the role of Neo, but in the end, he refused because he himself admitted that he could not understand the concept of the film. He stated that he would ruin the movie.