Will Smith just got real about a career oopsie-daisy so big, it could rival Wild Wild West (remember that gem?). The Bad Boys legend sat down for an upcoming episode of Vice’s Black Comedy in America series, where he spilled the beans on a major mistake that involved—drumroll, please—another Hollywood heavyweight. Drama incoming!
Here’s the deal: Back in the day when Will was less Men in Black cool and more “Fresh Prince with a flat-top,” he had a bit of a showdown with his iconic Fresh Prince of Bel-Air costar Janet Hubert. Yup, Aunt Viv 1.0 herself. For those living under a rock—or just too young to know—Janet played the OG Aunt Viv for three glorious seasons before she handed over her sassy heels to Daphne Maxwell Reid. And let’s just say, the exit wasn’t exactly a tearful group hug moment.
For years, Will and Janet traded shady comments like frenemies at a high school reunion. Things got so tense, you’d think they were competing for the last slice of cheesecake. But in 2020, they shocked the world by squashing the beef. It was like a real-life soap opera twist: hugs, tears, and a whole lot of finally.
Now, 56-year-old Will is reflecting on those drama-filled days with a big ol’ slice of humble pie. Speaking to People, he confessed, “I made a horrible error and misjudgment of her value and power and beauty to the show.” Translation: Will underestimated Aunt Viv’s magic, and now he’s kicking himself harder than Carlton doing his iconic dance.
“I horribly underestimated what she was for me at that point in my life,” he added. Cue the collective aww from fans everywhere. Honestly, it’s refreshing to see a Hollywood star own up to their mess-ups. Plus, we’re always here for a redemption arc that doesn’t involve an Oscars slap.
Moral of the story? Never underestimate a queen like Janet Hubert, especially when she’s rocking the best side-eye in sitcom history. Your move, Will. Now, how about a reboot with both Aunt Vivs for good measure? Netflix, are you listening?
