As one of the most enigmatic men in Hollywood, Will Smith has the kind of regal aura that captivates audiences. And while he is not entertaining fans with his artistic crafts, his philanthropic endeavors through the Will Smith Foundation speak volumes of his big heart. Some who have heard him drop pearls of wisdom on the Red Table Talk show alongside his wife may even go as far as calling the man wise. Regardless of the slapgate slip-up, the Independence Day actor has maintained a loyal following by being a genuine man all around.

Through his open-hearted interviews, the 54-year-old gives fans a glimpse of the open mind behind the persona. And in an old chat on a talk show, he even shared some heart-warming advice he received from a special family member.

This family member called Smith “loverboy”

In a podcast interview with Jay Shetty, when asked about the best advice he received, the actor pulls something out from way back in his memory lane. As he talked about the time he left his hometown for the first time alongside, he recalled his grandmother asked her “loverboy” to be “nice to everyone.” Saying that the people he will meet as he climbs the ladder of success may be the same he passes on his “way down”, she dropped a wise gem.

It seems like besides his children who he once credited for another major life lesson, the father of three has been on the receiving end of some beautiful advice all around. Fans of Smith know about his humble beginnings in Philadelphia which are represented in the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air as well. Which makes this story all the more stirring.

Notably, his grandmother was not the only family member who opened the Men in Black actor’s eyes to the world’s truth because sometimes life’s lessons don’t come from the flowery moments.

What dark truth did Will Smith learn from his parents?

Smith inadvertently learned a lot from his parents, who did not present as the best role models for him when he was young. When he spoke of those times in the interview, he revealed that he believed that not wanting “revenge” from people who hurt you is a real dilemma. But he spoke of his belief that “loving kindness” is the only answer.

He advocated the importance of doing so, even if it is difficult because otherwise “we destroy ourselves.” From being exposed to violence to not having the most conducive space to grow, he still managed to become a huge success.

Do you think Will Smith’s life reflects that he stayed true to his grandmother’s advice? Share your opinions in the comments.