Will Smith is back in the spotlight, and he’s not holding back. In a bold move that’s making waves, the Hollywood icon just dropped a new music video where he takes on the critics who claimed he was “canceled” after the infamous Oscars slap incident. The video, titled “INT. BARBERSHOP - DAY,” is the opening track from his first full-length album in 20 years, “Based on a True Story.” And if there was ever a way to make a statement, this is it.
A Barbershop Debate Like No Other
The video takes viewers into a lively barbershop setting where multiple characters—each played by Smith himself—engage in a heated debate about his reputation. In one scene, Smith, donning a wig and playing a barber, throws out the controversial claim: “Will Smith is canceled.” But just as quickly, another version of Smith, this time sporting sunglasses as a different barber, fires back: “Oh, you can’t cancel no icon.”
The video creatively plays with perspectives, showing different characters, including a child-like version of Smith, discussing the fallout from the Oscars incident. One of them even insists, incorrectly, that Smith had to return his Best Actor Oscar. In reality, while he was banned from the Academy Awards for 10 years, he still holds onto the coveted statuette. And just when you think Smith is done poking fun at his own controversy, another version of him, this time in Groucho Marx-style glasses, chimes in, reading from his 2021 memoir “Will.” He dryly delivers a now-iconic line: “Keep his wife’s name out of your mouth.”
Then, in the ultimate mic-drop moment, Smith himself—no wigs, no disguises—enters the scene, holding his Oscar statuette, as if to say, “Yeah, I’m still here.”
A Musical Comeback Worth Talking About
Smith isn’t just making a statement with visuals—his new album “Based on a True Story” officially dropped on Friday, marking his return to music after two decades. The album isn’t just about beats and rhymes; it directly tackles the backlash he faced after slapping Chris Rock at the 2022 Academy Awards over a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith.
One track, “You Lookin’ for Me?,” delivers a powerful message. Smith confidently raps that people will eventually “get acclimated” to him again, and that his work still stands strong, even if awards bodies might hesitate to recognize him. “My shit’s still hot even though I won’t get nominated,” he raps, subtly addressing his complicated standing in Hollywood. (For the record, despite his Academy ban, he’s still eligible for Oscar nominations.)
Rebuilding His Reputation, One Step at a Time
Music isn’t the only arena where Smith is reclaiming his narrative. Before his return to the music world, he proved he’s still got box-office power. This past summer, he starred in the buddy cop sequel Bad Boys: Ride or Die, which raked in over $404 million worldwide. The success of the film was a major win for Smith, proving that audiences are still willing to show up for him despite the controversy.
The Return of DJ Jazzy Jeff and Special Features
Another highlight of Smith’s musical comeback? He’s teaming up with longtime collaborator DJ Jazzy Jeff, reminding fans of the magic they created in the ’90s. Also featured in the project is B. Simone, adding even more energy to the tracklist.
While some may still debate whether Smith has fully redeemed himself in the eyes of the public, one thing is clear: he’s not backing down. His music video cleverly addresses criticism, blending humor, introspection, and a bit of swagger. And with a new album and a box-office hit under his belt, he’s making sure that his name—and his legacy—aren’t going anywhere.
What’s Next for Will Smith?
With a new album, a hit movie, and a renewed presence in the entertainment industry, the big question is: What’s next? Will he dive deeper into music, continue his streak in Hollywood, or perhaps surprise fans with another unexpected move? Whatever he decides, one thing is certain—Will Smith is far from finished.
For now, though, he’s sending a clear message to anyone still stuck on the past: He’s still standing, still creating, and still making headlines on his own terms.
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