One of Hollywood’s most-known figures, Will Smith found himself in a massive controversy last year. He slapped host Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards and the after-effects still linger. While the world was condemning his act, the Oscar-winning actor chose to remain lowkey about it. However, it’s about time for the $350 million worth star to take control of the reins once again. But have the fans forgiven him?
Smith starred in the 2007 blockbuster I Am Legend which made $585.4 million at the box office, per Evening Standard. Given the movie’s success, a sequel was in talks. Thus, the actor confirmed the news of I Am Legend 2 in a recent interview at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudia Arabia. Yet, the fans didn’t seem to have forgotten his infamous antic. As the news rolled in, fans took to social media to troll Smith once again.
Will Smith announces I Am Legend sequel
After a long hiatus from public appearances, the 55-year-old star finally showed up for a conversation about his upcoming movie I Am Legend 2 at the Red Sea International Film held in Saudi Arabia. This was one of his first appearances after the Oscars episode. Smith even addressed his controversy with Chris Rock, courageously, and shared his perspective on life right now. As per Screen Daily, Smith revealed in the conversation,
”What I’ve experienced in my adversities of the last couple of years is I have to be clear about: I can’t need others to applaud for me to stay focused on my mission…I am here because, in my deepest heart, I want you to feel good.”
The sci-fi sequel will unravel in an alternate DVD version where Will Smith’s character lives. The movie will star Michael B. Jordan alongside Smith and the script is almost ready, per sources. However, an official release date hasn’t yet been announced. A Twitter post on Smith’s sequel was shared recently by The Hollywood Handle which derived much mockery from fans.
Will Smith will return in ‘I AM LEGEND 2’.
(Via: https://t.co/jdOo6kQg3k) pic.twitter.com/anPwEDh5Es
— The Hollywood Handle (@HollywoodHandle) December 2, 2023
The first installment was set in a post-apocalyptic era, portraying Smith as a scientist Robert Neville who is on a mission to find a cure for the deadly plaque but dies around the end. Smith is also co-producing I Am Legend 2, much like his other works in Karate Kid, Pursuit of Happyness, and many more. While the star has high hopes for the film, we can’t say the same for fans.
Fans can’t get over Will Smith’s Oscars menace
Having announced the news of his sequel this Saturday, netizens had mixed reactions on the matter. Despite a year and another Oscar ceremony later, several fans have chosen to troll the superstar for his past. While there’s no denying that Smith is an absolute performer, his personal setbacks have got him into the fans’ hit list. Here are some reactions from fans:
Is he gonna get up in a zombies face and slap it in front of everyone
— That Little Alien thing (@alienthingl337) December 3, 2023
That’s gonna slap!!
— Jones Vibes (@jonesvibesonly) December 2, 2023
Will he be slapping Chris Rock across the face?
— John Heaton (@johnheaton) December 2, 2023
Better bring back the dog as well
— César H. Sandoval (@TekkZero) December 2, 2023
And they’re going with the DVD ending
— Kami Anime S (@KamiAnimess) December 2, 2023
But he died at the end of the first one?
— Name (@LORC4N712) December 2, 2023
Previously directed by Francis Lawrence, there has been no confirmation that he shall continue with the sequel. The major challenge for the plotline was Nevill’s death in the first movie. However, the writers seemed to have figured it all out with Smith and Jordan’s help. Although Smith did not reveal much in the public conversation, he admitted that he is pretty excited about the project. Hopefully, Smith can make up for his infamous slap with some smashing acting.