Will Smith has said that while writing his autobiography, he “unlocked” his childhood trauma, which has helped him become a better actor.
The ‘Independence Day’ star wrote his life story in his book ‘Will,’ detailing his rough childhood growing up in Philadelphia and experiencing domestic violence at home when his father assaulted his mother, according to femalefirst.co.uk.
Will revealed in a new interview on David Letterman’s Netflix series ‘My Next Guest Needs No Introduction’ that his difficult background led him to adopt a cheerful public persona.
“When I showed up, I wanted them to feel wonderful and joyful,” he explained. Because I discovered that when my household was like that, I felt safe.”
The ‘Men in Black’ star went on to say that ruminating about his history helped him better as an actor.
“My experiences and my life, as well as the writing of this book, have awakened a part of me as an actor that is unlike anything I’ve ever encountered,” he continued.
Life is so thrilling to me right now because I can reach people in ways I’ve never been able to reach people before, thanks to my pain. I’m incredibly excited to plunge into my craft in a way that I hope will be both rewarding for me and beneficial to the human family.”
The interview was taped before the 2022 Academy Awards, when Smith went onstage and struck host Chris Rock after the comedian made a joke about his wife Jada Pinkett Smith.
Will went on to win the Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal in ‘King Richard,’ but he later resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and was sentenced to ten years in prison.