Challenges in the Life of Will Smith in a Detailed Timeline

Life is full of challenges, and Will Smith faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Will Smith is a highly successful American actor, rapper, and film producer. He has won an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, a BAFTA, and four Grammy Awards. As of 2025, his films have generated over $9.5 billion worldwide, establishing him as one of Hollywood's most financially successful actors.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

2016: Smith starred in Suicide Squad and Collateral Beauty

In 2016, Will Smith played Deadshot in Suicide Squad, a role he chose over Independence Day: Resurgence. Also in 2016, Smith starred in Collateral Beauty. In 2016, Smith's father was diagnosed with cancer and passed away. Collateral Beauty marked the lowest box office opening of Will Smith's career.

Loading Video...

2016: Separation from Jada Pinkett Smith

Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith had been separated since 2016, though they have no intention to divorce.

December 22, 2017: Netflix released Bright

On December 22, 2017, Smith's film Bright was distributed via Netflix. It was the most expensive film for Netflix to date, but was met with critical disappointment.

Loading Video...

October 11, 2019: Release of Gemini Man

On October 11, 2019, Ang Lee's Gemini Man, starring Will Smith, was released. The film was a box office bomb and received negative reviews.

Loading Video...

2021: Smith pulls Emancipation production from Georgia

In 2021, Will Smith announced that production of his upcoming film, Emancipation, was being pulled from the U.S. state of Georgia in response to the Election Integrity Act of 2021. He and director Antoine Fuqua released a joint statement saying they could not provide economic support to a government enacting regressive voting laws.

Loading Video...

April 8, 2022: Academy bans Smith from Oscars for 10 years

On April 8, 2022, the Academy announced its decision to ban Will Smith from future Oscars galas and associated events for 10 years as a result of the slapping incident.

December 2022: Release of Emancipation and cancellation of Fast and Loose

In December 2022, Emancipation was released to mixed reviews and was a commercial failure. Also in December 2022, Netflix cancelled production on Fast and Loose due to the Oscar incident.

Loading Video...

September 2024: Will Smith Exits Sugar Bandits

In September 2024, it was announced that Will Smith exited crime thriller Sugar Bandits due to scheduling conflicts with another undisclosed project. He will remain involved as a producer.

Loading Video...