Will Smith’s big screen comeback with Bad Boys: Ride or Die seems to have reignited interest in the leading man, with reports emerging about his potential next high-profile project – a sci-fi thriller television series tackling artificial intelligence.
According to reports from Puck News, Smith has entered into discussions with Westworld creators Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy about spearheading a new AI-centric series that Smith himself conceived the initial idea for.
The concept, still in its early stages, would see Smith starring as the lead for at least the first season before potentially handing off to another actor in subsequent installments if it extends beyond a limited series.
Nolan and Joy’s production banner Kilter Films has already held several meetings with Smith about fleshing out his pitched premise, which is described as being “set in the world of A.I.” Few other details are known, but the story will likely explore humanity’s escalating conflicts with advanced artificial intelligence.
The pairing makes sense, as Smith has starred in AI-themed films before like I, Robot, while Nolan and Joy have extensive experience bringing grounded sci-fi concepts to life through their acclaimed HBO series Westworld and previous projects like Person of Interest.
News of Smith’s latest TV endeavor arrives on the heels of Bad Boys: Ride or Die’s successful box office rebound for the actor. The fourth installment of the hit action franchise defied industry skepticism by amassing over $214 million globally so far.
This revived commercial appeal seems to have reinvigorated Smith’s prospects after a period of stagnation following his infamous slapping incident at the 2022 Academy Awards. Prior to Bad Boys’ release, there were rumblings that major studios were hesitant to work with the Oscar winner.
However, Smith may now be eyeing his first major TV commitment since his starring roles in 1990s hits The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and All of Us. He remains attached to the long-awaited I Am Legend sequel, but taking the lead in a prestige sci-fi series could be his next major career move.
Of course, Smith’s participation hinges on if talks with Nolan and Joy’s team can solidify into an actual production deal. But the prospect of Will Smith battling a nefarious AI force promises an enticing homecoming to television for one of Hollywood’s most charismatic stars.
