Will Smith likes to look at the bigger picture of life. Even after becoming one of the biggest superstars, he is humble and grateful for everything he has. All these years, he has shared numerous motivational speeches so that people can follow the path he once took. Not to mention, he has supported young actors at the beginning of their careers, taking them under his wing. While the American actor also kept on spreading his word of wisdom, giving advice to his friends. Just like how he once pointed out the reason that held back his fellow artist from becoming a superstar.

Smith and L.L. Cool J are the two names who shared similar interests at the beginning of their career. Considering both of them entered the acting line following their success in the music industry. However, the Oscar winner instantly took the limelight with his role in the series The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. One thing led to another, and he became one of the biggest superstars. So after gaining experience, he tried to give the ‘Exit 13’ singer some tips to succeed as an actor.

“L.L. and I have been talking a lot,” Smith told MTV News in 1998. The actor revealed that he tried several times to tell his friend how he needs to change his persona when he comes on the stage and that he cannot be the same rapper because these two are completely different professions.

According to him, the musician was combating this concept since he wanted to hold his reputation as a musician. On the other hand, L.L. Cool J has a very different perspective on the matter and didn’t feel the same way.

L.L. Cool J did not agree with Will Smith on this transitional journey

The New York native never thought that his credibility would come into danger if he focus more on acting. Speaking with LA Times, he stated that people who just listen to music would think that the singer is going to lose his charm. “But a person who is part of the hip hop culture would say, ‘Oh LL’s hustling; he’s expanding; he’s moving on even more, and that’s good,” he remarked.

In his opinion, people who have worked in the music world would understand and won’t mind an artist exploring other things. Yet from what Will Smith has experienced in his transition phase rappers weren’t happy with his role in the sitcom. Well, these things never stopped him from conveying his love for cinema no matter what people think. This is why he has still maintained his charm on the silver screen after decades of doing different roles.

What are your thoughts on his advice? Leave your comments below!