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 received numerous awards, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a BAFTA Award, and four Grammy Awards. Smith's films have generated over $10 billion globally, establishing him as one of Hollywood's most commercially successful and influential figures.

Sections (6)

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

2006: Named one of Time's 100 most influential people

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

2008: Named one of Esquire's 75 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 as one of the best-selling rap albums of all time.

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

2013: Identity as religious

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

2018: 50th birthday bungee jump in the Grand Canyon

In 2018, Will Smith celebrated his 50th birthday by performing a bungee jump from a helicopter in the Grand Canyon, raising money for the charity Global Citizen.

March 26, 2025: Street name dedication in West Philadelphia

On March 26, 2025, Will Smith attended a ceremony where his name was added to red stripes at the bottom of street signs along a block of 59th Street in west Philadelphia.