After March’s “slap heard ’round the world,” Will Smith is trying to move past his outburst against Academy Awards host Chris Rock by working on his return to film. And what better way for the 53-year-old actor to come back from what would otherwise be a career-ending altercation than to write a sequel to one of his best films, 2007’s I Am Legend.
Now, it’s important to note that none of this information is official and it’s all from a “source” who talked to The Sun, but it’s still an interesting concept.
“The script is being written mentioning his character and as of yet, Will remains attached to the project,” the source told The Sun.
Smith’s Westbrook Studios, established in 2019, is expected to produce the new film with Warner Bros rumored to be the distributor.
“The concept is still to be signed off by Warner Brothers, but there has been no indication that Will is off the project,” the source shared.
“Obviously he is the producer of the film and his production company is in charge while the development continues,” they noted.
Will Smith taking the path to humility after his Oscars snafu by moving forward with I Am Legend 2, and frankly, I admire it.
— Michael Pratt (@ProjectPratt11) June 13, 2022
The Original Movie Won 9 Awards
I Am Legend was a huge hit in 2007, winning 9 awards and receiving nominations for 23 more. The film was based on the 1954 novel by Richard Matheson and had been previously adapted as 1964’s The Last Man on Earth and 1971’s The Omega Man.
“The reality is that Will will make a comeback at some point and it will be simply down to which studio will be the one to take a chance on him,” the source told The Sun.
“The negative sentiments from the public about his career have certainly reduced in recent weeks as the world has moved on thanks to stories like the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard trial,” they continued.
Smith came under heavy criticism following his assault on Chris Rock at this year’s Oscars, but still went on to win the Best Actor award for his role in King Richard.
“Certainly Hollywood loves comeback stories where stars seemingly done with the business bounce back with a big project such as with Robert Downey Jr, Mel Gibson, Drew Barrymore, and Winona Ryder,” The Sun’s source continued.
“In two years’ time things could look very different – and Will could return to the screen,” they shared.
What do you think about the news? Would you watch the sequel? Let us know in the comments below.
Want to chat about all things post-apocalyptic? Join our Discord server here. You can also follow us by email here, on Facebook, or Twitter. Oh, and TikTok, too!
It’s an interesting setting so looking forward to seeing it fleshed out.
Interesting tid bit, the alternative ending on the DVD/Blu Ray has Will Smith surviving when the mutant comes and gets his bride, so guess they would be going with that ending.