It seems like Will Smith is contemplating between two options, symbolized by the red and blue pill, but rest assured, the talented Oscar winner isn’t planning to step into the world of the Matrix for a film role.

As a devoted Matrix fan, I was thrilled when Warner Bros. announced a fifth Matrix installment with Drew Goddard on board as both writer and director. However, reliable sources have exclusively shared with EbMaster that, for now, Keanu Reeves won’t be reprising his iconic role in the film franchise.

Reflecting back on Monday, I found myself musing over a intriguing thought. It all started when Smith shared a mysterious post on Instagram, hinting at his choice to decline the lead role in “The Matrix,” which ultimately became Keanu Reeves’ iconic portrayal of Neo.

In 1997, the Wachowskis extended an offer to Will Smith for the part of Neo in ‘The Matrix.’ However, he declined the role and instead opted to star in ‘Wild Wild West,’ as he felt it suited him better at that moment. One can’t help but wonder what a different ‘The Matrix’ would have looked like with Will Smith portraying Neo.

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The Matrix franchise, led by Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss as Trinity, began over a quarter-century ago with three sequels – “The Matrix Reloaded” (2003) and “The Matrix Revolutions” (also 2003), followed by “The Matrix Resurrections” in 2021. In contrast, Smith’s “Wild Wild West” movie failed at the box office in 1999 and received eight Razzie nominations, including for worst picture. However, it did inspire a Grammy-nominated song with the same name.

Smith’s video ends with the text: “Wake up, Will. The matrix has you.”

Given Smith’s recent hints about releasing a new album after 20 years since his last one (“Lost and Found” in 2005), it appears that his upcoming cyberpunk-related project might be musically oriented. Over the past six months, he has released several singles such as “You Can Make It,” “Work of Art,” and “Tantrum,” along with their music videos. Additionally, he has been performing live again, making a surprise appearance at J. Balvin’s Coachella set and performing at the BET Awards. These activities suggest that his musical career might be back in full swing.

Without a doubt, “Wild Wild West” (and a handful of other less successful movies) notwithstanding, Smith was one of the top box office attractions during the ’90s and early 2000s. He headlined blockbuster films like “I Am Legend,” “Men in Black,” “Bad Boys,” and “Independence Day.” His latest appearance on the big screen was in “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” in 2024, which was his first significant film release since he got into an altercation with Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars.

During some of my toughest times, music has consistently been a source of comfort and support for me,” Smith posted on Instagram in June. “It’s helped me find solace and flourish.

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2025-01-07 01:16