How Will Smith Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

A detailed timeline of the impact and legacy of Will Smith across different fields.

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

2006: Smith named one of Time's 100 most influential people

In 2006, Time magazine named Will Smith one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

2008: Esquire names Smith one of the most influential people of the 21st century

In 2008, Esquire named Will Smith one of the 75 most influential people of the 21st century.

2013: Big Willie Style recognized as a best-selling rap album

As of 2013, Will Smith's debut solo album Big Willie Style (1997) is among the best-selling rap albums of all time.

2013: Will Smith's Religious Views

In 2013, Will Smith stated in an interview that he did not identify as religious.

2015: Smith discusses the Influence of his Christian Faith on his Role in Concussion

In 2015, Will Smith discussed how his Christian faith, instilled by his grandmother, helped him portray Bennet Omalu in the movie Concussion. Smith said his grandmother was his spiritual teacher and a very spiritually certain person who was excited about going to heaven when she was dying.

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2018: Smith performs Hindu rituals in India

In 2018, Will Smith performed the Hindu rite of abhisheka of Shiva at Haridwar, India. He also performed an arti of the holy river Ganga and expressed a deep connection to Hindu spirituality and Indian astrology. Smith and his family also met with the Indian spiritual leader Sadhguru.