Updated January 30.
The internet was buzzing with speculation after Will Smith posted a cryptic Instagram video, with many believing that he might finally step into the Matrix franchise.
However, the truth behind the teasers has been revealed: Smith is not joining the world of Neo and Morpheus but collaborating with Big Sean on a new song titled Beautiful Scars.
Smith shared a trailer on Sunday (January 26), playfully recreating the iconic red pill/blue pill scene from the 1999 sci-fi classic. In the clip, Big Sean takes on the role of Morpheus, while Smith portrays Neo.
“Look, you’ve made some awesome career choices your whole life. There’s only one you truly regret. Well, maybe two, but we’re not gonna focus on that one,” Sean says, channeling Morpheus’s signature voice.
This funny nod to Smith’s infamous Oscars moment with Chris Rock.
“Blue pill, everything remains the same, and you get to move on with your life. Red pill, you get to go back and star in that movie that got away. The choice is yours,” Sean continues.
Smith hilariously swallows both pills, which departs from the original film.
The teaser doesn’t reveal what happens nex. The single Beautiful Scars drops this Thursday (January 30), and rumors suggest its music video will continue the Matrix-inspired theme.
The teaser playfully revisits a well-known piece of Hollywood history: in 1997, the Wachowskis approached Will Smith to play Neo in The Matrix. Smith famously turned down the role, opting instead to star in Wild Wild West, a decision he has humorously reflected on over the years.
“But the question remains,” Smith wrote in the caption of his teaser post. “What would The Matrix have been like with Will Smith as Neo? Wake up, Will… The Matrix has you…”
While the video sparked excitement, insiders have confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that Smith will not appear in any upcoming Matrix films. Warner Bros. and writer-director Drew Goddard have a new installment in development, but Smith is not attached to the project.
Check out the music video.
