Actor Will Smith recently sent social media into a frenzy with a cryptic post that sparked speculation about his potential involvement in the next Matrix film. The post featured a series of references to the iconic 1999 sci-fi movie, leading fans to wonder if Smith might step into the role of Neo—a part he famously declined over two decades ago.
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In the post, Smith referenced the Wachowskis’ offer, writing: “In 1997, the Wachowskis offered Will Smith the role of Neo in The Matrix.” Reflecting on his decision, he added: “He chose Wild Wild West, believing it was a better fit for him at the time.” The actor then posed a thought-provoking question: “But the question remains: What would The Matrix have been like with Will Smith as Neo?” The post ended with the cryptic phrase: “Wake up Will… The Matrix has you…”
Fans eagerly speculated that Smith might be gearing up to join the Matrix universe. However, according to Deadline, sources clarified that Smith is not involved in the new Matrix project currently in development at Warner Bros. Instead, the post is linked to his return to music after nearly two decades.
Smith, who last released an album in 2005 titled Lost and Found, is preparing new material for his fans. The album featured the hit single “Switch,” which peaked at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 and became his third and final top 10 hit, according to Deadline. In June 2024, he dropped his first single in nearly 20 years, “You Can Make It,” a gospel-inspired hip-hop track featuring Fridayy and the Sunday Service Choir.
The decision to turn down The Matrix in favor of Wild Wild West remains a pivotal moment in Smith’s career. Released in 1999, Wild Wild West underperformed commercially, earning just $222 million globally against a production budget of $170 million, as reported by Deadline. The film, which co-starred Kevin Kline and Salma Hayek, was also produced by Warner Bros.—the studio behind the Matrix franchise.
In contrast, The Matrix, with Keanu Reeves as Neo, became a cultural phenomenon. The film grossed nearly $468 million worldwide and spawned three sequels, contributing to a total franchise revenue of $1.79 billion, according to Deadline.
Currently, Warner Bros. is developing a new Matrix film. Drew Goddard, the Oscar-nominated screenwriter of The Martian, is writing the script, while Lana Wachowski, co-writer and co-director of the original trilogy, is attached as an executive producer. However, casting details remain under wraps.
