‘I Want to Say Thankyou to Venus and Serena’ – Will Smith Sinks in Emotions After Winning the Best Actor Award at the Oscars for King Richard

Will Smith is undoubtedly having the best time of his acting career. The Pennsylvania-born actor, last night won his first Academy Award for his role in ‘King Richard’. Will, who has already won a number of other awards for his portrayal of Richard Williams, outplayed some of the biggest names in the acting world to win the award. Apart from Will, other nominees in the category were Javier Bardem, Benedict Cumberbatch, Andrey Garfield, and Denzel Washington.

Smith, who was nominated twice in the past as well, enjoyed his first Oscar win for his role in the movie ‘King Richard’. Smith thoroughly enjoyed the win. The 53-year-old actor got emotional during his award acceptance speech as he paid tribute to the Williams family.

The heart-melting speech of Will Smith

Will Smith, who plays the on-screen Richard Williams, has often been heard going all-heart for Richard’s personality and the way he has been with his family. This time was no different. Without giving a second thought, Will started his speech by addressing Richard Williams. The actor once again commended the protective nature of Richard towards his family. Referring to Richard, he said, “Richard Williams was a fierce defender of his family. Making this film, I got to protect Aunjanue Ellis, who is of the most strongest, most delicate people I have ever met. I got to protect Sanaya (on-screen Venus Williams) and Demi (on-screen Serena Williams).”

King Richard is a life portrayal of Richard Williams, father of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams. The two sisters, who have achieved the greatest heights in the sport have also been the executive producers of the film. However, just being a producer is not enough. During his speech, Smith expressed gratitude towards the Williams family, thanking them for believing in him. Addressing the way Richard has been with his family, Smith asserted that this is what he wants to do.

“I want to say thank you to Venus and Serena and the entire Williams family for entrusting me with your story. That’s what I want to do. I want to be an ambassador of that kind of love, care, and concern.”

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Will Smith shades tears of joy and satisfaction

Will Smith is known for his soft-hearted and emotional personality. The actor has often been spotted getting emotional on a number of occasions. This time was no different. Not being able to control his emotions, Smith broke down in tears during his admirable speech. However, he asserted that the emotional breakdown was not because of him winning the award. Instead, he was emotional because winning this award is also proof of recognization of the outstanding work of all of his fellow co-stars and Serena and Venus themselves.

“This is a beautiful moment. I am not crying for winning an award. It’s not about winning an award for me. It’s about being able to shine light on all other people. Tim (White), and Trevor (White), and Zack (Baylin) and Sanaya and Demi, Aunjanue and the entire cast and crew of King Richard. To Venus and Serena, to the entire Williams family.”

Other awards won by Will Smith for King Richard

Will Smith won the Academy Award for ‘Best Actor’ at the Academy Awards. However, that is not the only win for the actor. Apart from this win, Smith has also won 5 other major awards in the ‘Best Actor’ category for King Richard.

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Smith also won the Golden Globe Award, BAFTA Award, SAG Award, CCA Award, and the NAACP Image Award.