With A Big Win At SAG For 'King Richard,' Will Smith Thanks Everyone Who Made It Possible, Including Denzel Washington.
It was a big night for Will Smith at the 2022 Screen Actors Guild Awards where he won Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for his all-encompassing portrayal of Richard Williams in King Richard. This was a first for Smith, and hopefully not the last.
In his acceptance speech, he was humbled, thanking his co-stars, and of course, the Williams sisters, stating,
"That may have been one of the greatest moments of my career just now ... because my name was called for 'King Richard,' sitting next to Venus Williams."
Smith also spoke of the can-do mentality of Richard Williams, the man behind his performance,
"Richard Williams is a dreamer like no one you've ever known. He has a power of belief that borders on insanity and sometimes tips over the border, which is absolutely necessary to take something from impossible to possible."
So well deserved. Will Smith takes home his first Actor® for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role! #sagawards pic.twitter.com/gD6I4GTVLs
— SAG Awards® (@SAGawards) February 28, 2022
But it was an interview with People where Smith took the time to talk about fellow actor Denzel Washington, a friend who he considers a mentor. While speaking with host Kay Adams, Smith recounts the moment Washington congratulated him on the achievement.
Denzel Washington, Michael Keaton, and Will Smith are caught mid-laugh after the awards finish up - we wonder what Will Smith said to have them all guffawing like that!
"We've spent a lot of time together. So we've been talking, he's always been a mentor for me and he grabbed me and he said, 'This is your year.' He just hugged me and he said, 'I'm so happy for you. Just love who you're becoming.' "
What's so amazing about the win is that it took so long to happen. For years, audiences have shown up for Smith in almost everything he has done, making him a favorite amongst fans and peers alike. Whether he is in action, drama, or comedy, his talents have always soared well beyond what so many have done in their careers and it looks like Will Smith is finally getting the recognition we all knew he deserved.
Congratulations.
