A little over a year ago, Will Smith changed the fate of his career. He went from being one of Hollywood’s leading actors to a rather polarizing figure. It all took a turn during the annual Academy Awards ceremony back in 2022. That was when the actor stunned the world with a slap that ended up going viral. While some fans seemed to think that the situation was funny, the 55-year-old had some serious consequences to face.

The incident may have caused most stars’ careers to go belly up, but Smith’s seemed to be over for a brief moment. However, after he recently made his way to a legendary list, there could be hope, after all.

Why Will Smith is still a Hollywood legend

Recently, it was revealed that Will Smith and Tom Cruise had led the list of the 10 actors with the highest number of films that grossed $100 million in their career. While it came as no surprise that the Mission: Impossible star topped the list with 76% of his films managing to cross the milestone, the Independence Day star was not too far behind. He was just second on the list with 72% reaching the mark.

They were also followed by some of the biggest names in the industry, like Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, Brad Pitt, Jim Carrey, and more. Although Smith might not be everybody’s favorite actor right now, there is no denying that his films are like no other. With the actor diving into new projects and even giving his fans major I Am Legend 2 film updates, they will be flocking to theaters to watch him on the big screen.

While the recent reports prove that he would eventually end up back on top in Hollywood, there was a brief moment of doubt for the actor himself just last year.

Will Smith’s Emancipation flop

Months after Will Smith was shunned by the world for slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars, the 55-year-old tried to sweep problems under the rug with a new film. The actor came out with a new movie titled, Emancipation. It was about a runaway slave who almost lost his life. He was so excited about the film that Smith ended up hosting his little film premiere at his house. While the film was well received by his fellow actors and celebrities, he had to face disappointment once it was released to the public.

Although the story was supposed to take viewers back in time and feel the character’s pain and rage, Smith’s performance failed to bring it to life. As surprising as it seems, the actor just did not manage to make a connection with his role and his viewers. Hopefully, it will not happen with his next project.

What do you think about Will Smith’s Hollywood reign? Let us know in the comments below.