Explore 40 intriguing facts about Will Smith, delving into his life, career, and achievements.
Early Life and Family
- Full Name: Willard Carroll Smith II
- Birth Date: September 25, 1968
- Birthplace: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S
- Parents: Caroline (a school board administrator) and Willard Carroll Smith Sr. (a refrigeration engineer)
- Siblings: Has three siblings; sister Pamela and younger brothers Harry and Ellen
Education
- High School: Attended Overbrook High School in Philadelphia
- College Scholarship Myth: Did not turn down a scholarship to MIT; he never applied
Musical Career Beginnings
- Rap Start: Began rapping at age 12
- DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince: Formed the group with childhood friend Jeffrey “DJ Jazzy Jeff” Townes 3.
- First Grammy: Won the first Grammy awarded in the Rap category in 1988
Financial Issues
- Tax Problems: Owed $2.8 million to the IRS and was nearly bankrupt in 1990
Acting Career
- Television Breakthrough: Starred in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” from 1990 to 1996
- Film Debut: “Where the Day Takes You” in 1992
- First Major Film Role: “Six Degrees of Separation” in 1993
- Big Box Office Success: Became a prime box office draw with “Independence Day” in 1996 3.
- Summer Hits: Starred in “Men in Black” in 1997 3.
- Record-Breaking: Smith became the only actor to have eight consecutive films gross over $100 million in the domestic box office
Personal Life
- First Marriage: To Sheree Zampino in 1992; they divorced in 1995 2.
- Children: Has three children, including Jaden and Willow
Awards and Nominations
- Oscar Nominations: Received Best Actor nominations for “Ali” and “The Pursuit of Happyness” 3.
- Golden Globe Nominations: Nominated for five Golden Globe Awards 3.
- Grammy Awards: Won four Grammy Awards 2.
Nicknames
- Fresh Prince: A nickname from his early rapping days 1
- Mr. July: Known for his blockbuster releases in July
Business Ventures
- Production Company: Founded Overbrook Entertainment, named after the local high school 1.
Cultural Impact
- Influence on Rappers: Cited as a pioneer for rappers crossing over into acting 2.
- Sitcom Legacy: “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” is considered a watershed moment for Hip-Hop and Black television
Record-Breaking Achievements
- Box Office Records: His films have grossed over $9.3 billion globally 2.
- Guinness World Record: Attended three premieres in a 24-hour time span 3.
Philanthropy
- Charitable Work: Known for contributing to various philanthropic causes.
Physical Attributes
- Height: 6′ 2″ (1.88 m) 3.
Notable Film Roles
- The Matrix Opportunity: Turned down the role of Neo in “The Matrix” 3.
- Voice Acting: Voiced the character Oscar in the animated film “Shark Tale” 3.
Personal Beliefs
- Religion: Raised Baptist 3.
Unique Traits
- Work Ethic: Known for his strong work ethic and determination 1.
Hobbies and Interests
- Golf: Enjoys playing golf in his free time.
Achievements and Honors
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: Has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
