Will Smith sent ripples of speculation throughout social media when he posted a cryptic video earlier this week, seemingly hinting at a possible involvement with the upcoming installment of The Matrix franchise. The video, featuring iconic Matrix-style text, recounted Smith's long-ago decision to reject the character of Neo, a role made famous by Keanu Reeves. Critics and followers alike wondered if this meant he was returning to the franchise, but sources quickly quashed these rumors.
“Will Smith took to social media to share his history with the film series, The Wachowskis offered Will Smith the role of Neo in The Matrix. Smith turned it down,” reported Deadline. His Instagram post elaborated on this past, reiteratively asking, “But the question remains: What would The Matrix have been like with Will Smith as Neo?” His video concluded with the enigmatic phrase, “Wake up, Will… The Matrix has you...” sparking widespread speculation.
The origins of this backstory stem from 1997 when the Wachowskis initially approached Smith with the lead role of Neo. At the time, Smith opted to star instead in Wild Wild West, feeling it would be a more fitting project. The decision has long been debated among fans of both films. While The Matrix turned out to be a monumental success with global earnings of approximately $467 million, Wild Wild West flopped spectacularly, garnering eight Razzie nominations and widely critiqued by audiences.
Fast forward to today, and the Matrix franchise is gearing up for its fifth installment, which was officially announced by Warner Bros. last year. Industry insiders have confirmed, “Will Smith is not involved,” which leads to the natural question: What could this cryptic post mean? While Smith may not be stepping back onto the franchise, it serves as a reminder of his choice from nearly three decades ago.
The new Matrix film, which will be directed by Drew Goddard and executive-produced by Lana Wachowski, marks the first film not directed by one of the Wachowskis. Goddard expresses great admiration for the groundbreaking work of the original directors, stating, “It is not hyperbole to say The Matrix films changed both cinema and my life.” The anticipation builds as casting details remain closely guarded.
Will Smith, on the other hand, has been making headlines for reasons beyond Matrix speculation. He has hinted at launching new music, sparking additional layers to his social media post’s cryptic nature. The actor is set to release his first album in two decades, following his last major release, Lost and Found, which debuted back in 2005. Fans are enthusiastic as Smith prepares to share new music, sharing sentiments such as, “Through some of my darkest moments, music has been there for me.”
While Smith’s cryptic post has fans eagerly dissecting its intentions, it remains to be seen how it all fits together or whether it was purely nostalgic. Reps for Smith have declined to comment, leaving us with more questions than answers. Here’s hoping the mystery surrounding this enigmatic figure sheds light on where he’s headed next—whether it circles back to the Matrix franchise or flirts with his long-awaited musical endeavors.
The Matrix franchise continues to capture imaginations, with its past shaping the present. Smith’s choices from decades ago echo through time, reminding both fans and him about paths not taken and reflecting on futures yet to be unveiled.