Over the years, Hollywood has witnessed a huge number of actors who have starred in hit films. However, there are only a handful that have been as consistent as Will Smith. With a career spanning multiple decades, the Men In Black actor has delivered a series of hit films and shows. However, initially, the actor had no plans to star in some of his biggest films.

When we talk about Will Smith films, there are a handful of roles that played a major role in helping him reach where he is. Fitting the bill is the actor’s role in successful films, including Men In Black, The Pursuit Of Happyness, and Ali. Undoubtedly, Smith delivered an incredible performance, and it is almost impossible to imagine any other actor in these films. However, it might surprise you to know that things almost took a different turn years ago. During his recent appearance on the Kevin Hart show, Smith admitted that he was considering turning down all three roles. 

However, before the actor made his decision not to star in these films, his close-knit group of friends helped him make a better decision. Reminiscing on his journey, the actor credited his nears and dears, whom he referred to as his squad, who persuaded him to seize these legendary films. Smith’s manager and business partner, James Lassiter, convinced him to take on the Pursuit of Happyness and Ali. On the other hand, it was director Steven Spielberg’s persuasion, owing to which Smith starred as Agent-J.

Elsewhere, during his interview, Smith admitted how his entire journey as an actor was a team effort. He further continued that apart from being incredibly disciplined himself, he always needed his squad to back him. Meanwhile, there was one hit film by the actor that initially he was almost rejected for. 

The popular sci-fi film that the actor almost lost out on

By the mid-1990s, the Men In Black actor had become a household name. Almost every leading director in the studio wanted to work with the actor. However, interestingly, 20th Century Fox never wanted to cast the actor in 1996’s Independence Day, and the reason is surely surprising. 

As per reports by Complex, Fox was against having Smith in the movie as he was black. Moreover, Roland Emmerich revealed that the studio did not want a black actor, as would not appeal to the foreign audience. However, it was Emmerich and Dean Devlin who fought to cast the actor in the role. Unsurprisingly, their efforts bore fruit as Independence Day went on to become a huge success, grossing over $817 million.

Can you imagine any other actor in any of these roles? Comment down below.