Will Smith’s On-Screen Refusal: A Defining Moment in His Early Career

Back when Will Smith was transitioning from a rapper to an actor, he took on a challenging role as a gay hustler alongside the renowned Sir Ian McKellen in the 1993 film Six Degrees of Separation.

The movie revolves around Smith portraying a conman who captivates a wealthy couple in the elite circles of New York City.

Despite receiving acclaim for his performance, revelations emerged later that not all cast members were pleased with Smith's actions during filming.

In a pivotal scene where his character, a homosexual, was supposed to kiss his co-star Anthony Michael Hall on-screen, Smith adamantly refused to do so.

The refusal to carry out the scripted kiss did not sit well with Sir Ian McKellen, who shared his perspective on working with Smith in a candid interview.

Reflecting on the incident, McKellen recounted how he took it upon himself to address the issue directly with Smith.

Recalling the encounter, McKellen mentioned how Smith turned up for a read-through accompanied by a large entourage comprising family members, agents, publicists, and more.

Despite acknowledging Smith's charm and acting prowess, McKellen highlighted the incident where Smith declined to perform the on-screen kiss, despite its integral role in the script.

Consequently, at an early preview event, McKellen decided to make a bold statement by publicly greeting Smith with a significant kiss on the lips.

Smith later expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging his immaturity at the time and admitting that he grappled with personal doubts regarding how his friends would perceive the scene.

In a candid interview with Entertainment Weekly in December 1993, Smith opened up about his reluctance to commit to the on-screen kiss, citing emotional instability and concerns about external perceptions.

He recognized the incident as a valuable lesson that prompted introspection on artistic dedication and commitment to roles.

Despite this early career setback, Smith has since evolved both professionally and personally.

Recent reports shed light on his considerate gestures on the set of the Antoine Fuqua drama Emancipation, where he personally compensated actors portraying deceased characters.

Fuqua commended Smith's amiable demeanor towards the cast and crew, noting his interactions with extras and military personnel, showcasing a compassionate side that resonated positively amidst the challenges of the filming environment.