Will Smith Breaks His Silence: Why #OscarsSoWhite Is About More Than Awards

Will Smith is no stranger to the Oscars. With two previous Academy Award nominations and a career full of blockbuster performances, he’s long been a staple in Hollywood’s elite circles. But when the 2016 Oscar nominations were announced, and not a single person of color was recognized in any of the major acting categories, Smith found himself at the center of the #OscarsSoWhite controversy—a movement that called out the lack of diversity and representation in Hollywood’s biggest night.

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“Diversity Is America’s Superpower”

In a candid interview, Smith opened up about his disappointment—not just for himself, but for what the nominations said about the industry and the country.

“The beauty of Hollywood, combined with American ideals, is the ultimate dream for humanity. The basis of the American concept is that anything is possible with hard work and dedication, no matter your race, religion, or creed.”

Smith believes that diversity is what makes America great. He described the nation as a “beautiful gumbo” of different people, ideas, and inspirations. For him, Hollywood should reflect that same richness.

“It’s Going in the Wrong Direction”

Smith was quick to point out that this issue isn’t just about him or even just about the Oscars.

“When I look at the series of nominations from the Academy, it’s not reflecting that beauty. It feels like it’s going in the wrong direction.”

He explained that the Academy reflects the industry, and the industry reflects America. The lack of diversity in the nominations, he argued, mirrors broader challenges around race and inclusion in society.

“There’s a regressive slide toward separatism, towards racial and religious disharmony. That’s not the Hollywood I want to leave behind. That’s not the America I want to leave behind.”

Jada’s Call to Action

The conversation took on an even greater public profile when Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, posted a viral video announcing she would boycott the Oscars over the lack of diversity. Will admitted he didn’t know about the video until after it went live, but he fully supported her passion and message.

“She’s deeply passionate, and when she is moved, she has to act. I was happy to be married to that woman. I appreciated the push.”

Smith was quick to clarify that the boycott wasn’t about him missing out on a nomination. If he had been nominated and no other people of color were, Jada would have still spoken out.

“This is so deeply not about me. This is about children who are going to sit down and watch this show and not see themselves represented.”

“We’re Uncomfortable Standing There”

Both Will and Jada decided not to attend the Oscars that year, feeling it was wrong to stand by and act as if everything was okay.

“We’re part of this community, but at this current time, we’re uncomfortable to stand there and say that this is okay.”

The Path Forward: A Call to Action

Smith sees the controversy as an opportunity for Hollywood—and America—to do better. He believes it’s time for everyone to step up and fight for the ideals that make the country and the industry great.

“Diversity is America’s superpower. So many different people from so many different places, adding their ideas and inspiration. That’s the beauty I want to see reflected in Hollywood.”

As the conversation around #OscarsSoWhite continues, Will Smith hopes his words—and his actions—will inspire real change, not just in Hollywood, but across the nation.