Actor Will Smith Admitted He Was Conflicted While Taking on the Role of Dr Omalu in Concussion

Oscar-winning actor Will Smith revealed that he was conflicted about taking up his role in the movie ‘Concussion’. The actor, who’s known for his roles in films like Bad Boys, Ali, The Pursuit of Happyness and King Richard, among others, felt good about Concussion’s warm reception among viewers.

Speaking on ‘Good Morning America’, the actor elaborated on his role as Dr Bennet Omalu. Dr Omalu discovered a connection between injuries sustained on the football field and brain damage. He discovered Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy or CTE. These findings were published. This degenerative brain disease is caused by blows to the head. Smith also spoke about his son, Trey, who played football for four years.

The reason behind Will Smith’s hesitancy

While many were concerned about the backlash that the move could potentially face because of an anti-football theme, Smith said otherwise. He said that ‘Concussion’ was not an anti-football movie. The actor once also spoke about his upbringing in Philadelphia. Stating that he’s an Eagles fan, he said, “I love football.”

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The actor spoke about head trauma acquired during games, which could potentially cause brain damage. Smith also elaborated on the importance of spreading awareness regarding the sport. His moral obligation as a parent is what drove him to make the movie.

Smith received backlash

Aside from Concussion, the actor received critical acclaim for starring in another sports-related movie. Smith received an academy award for his portrayal of Venus and Serena Williams’ coach and father Richard Williams. After numerous years in the industry and a number of nominations for Academy Awards, this was the role than won Smith his Oscar.

Will Smith has been facing some backlash in the last few months. The infamous incident that occurred during the 2022 Academy Awards involving Smith and Chris Rock set into motion waves of criticism and trolling from peers and fans alike. It is safe to say that the internet never forgets. This incident may follow Smith for the rest of his career. Some fans believed that Smith’s behaviour cast a shadow over his role in ‘King Richard’. Nevertheless, as the actor tries to win back his dignity, fans know that Smith provided the world with unifying meme material that will not be forgotten any time soon.

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