Will Smith sent fans of The Matrix franchise into a frenzy earlier this week with an Instagram post that raised eyebrows. In the post, Smith reflected on passing up the role of Neo in the original 1999 Matrix movie, a decision that has long intrigued fans. The video featured the iconic green digital font of the franchise, stating: “In 1997, the Wachowskis offered Will Smith the role of Neo in The Matrix. Smith turned it down. He chose Wild Wild West, believing it was a better fit for him at the time.”
Will Smith Cryptic Post Sparks Speculation
The post concluded with a tantalizing question: “What would The Matrix have been like with Will Smith as Neo? Wake up, Will… The Matrix has you…” While some fans interpreted this as a hint that Smith might appear in the upcoming Matrix 5, insiders have clarified that he will not be involved.
A source close to Warner Bros. confirmed, “Will Smith is not joining the next Matrix film. Drew Goddard will direct, with Lana Wachowski as an executive producer.”
Smith’s decision to pass on The Matrix and instead star in 1999’s Wild Wild West has been a topic of discussion for years. While The Matrix became a cultural phenomenon, earning over $467 million worldwide and reshaping the sci-fi genre, Wild Wild West was critically panned and underperformed at the box office.
Despite the missed opportunity, Smith has maintained a successful career, starring in blockbuster hits such as Independence Day and Men in Black. Recently, he has been hinting at a return to music. His Instagram post follows a string of updates about his musical endeavors, including the release of a single, “Work of Art,” featuring his son Jaden and rapper Russ.
In a 2024 interview, he described his upcoming album, Dance in Your Darkest Moments, as “the most personal and powerful music project I’ve ever done.”