Willard Carroll Smith II, known professionally as Will Smith, is an American actor, rapper, and film producer. Born on September 25, 1968, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Smith has become one of Hollywood's most bankable stars, with films grossing over $9.5 billion globally. His career spans multiple genres, including hip-hop, television, and film, earning him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a BAFTA Award, and four Grammy Awards.
Main Milestones
Birth
September 25, 1968
Willard Carroll Smith II was born to Caroline (née Bright), a school board administrator, and Willard Carroll Smith Sr. in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Hip-Hop Career
1985-1994
Smith gained recognition as part of the hip-hop duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, releasing five studio albums that included five Billboard Hot 100 top 20 singles, such as 'Parents Just Don't Understand' and 'Boom Shake the Room'.
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
1990-1996
Smith starred as a fictionalized version of himself in the NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, earning two Golden Globe nominations for Best Actor – Television Series Musical or Comedy.
Six Degrees of Separation
1993
Smith made his film debut in the drama Six Degrees of Separation, based on John Guare's Pulitzer-nominated play, showcasing his big-screen chops.
Bad Boys
1995
Smith's first major film role was in the action comedy-thriller Bad Boys, which, despite not being a critical success, proved his star power by grossing over $100 million worldwide.
Independence Day
1996
Smith starred in the massive summer blockbuster Independence Day, which became the second highest-grossing film in history at the time and established him as a prime box office draw.
Men in Black
1997
Smith starred alongside Tommy Lee Jones in the science-fiction comedy Men in Black, which launched a successful franchise and further cemented his status as a leading man.
Ali
2001
Smith played the role of Muhammad Ali in the biopic Ali, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
The Pursuit of Happyness
2006
Smith starred as Chris Gardner in The Pursuit of Happyness, earning him a second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
King Richard
2021
Smith starred in the biographical sports drama King Richard, where he portrayed Richard Williams, the father of tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams.
Career Milestone
As of 2025
Smith's films have grossed over $9.5 billion globally, making him one of Hollywood's most bankable stars.
