Will Smith Shares Weight Loss Journey in Preparation for Role in 'Emancipation'

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Will Smith has undergone a dramatic transformation for his upcoming role in the film "Emancipation," losing a total of 30 pounds in the process. In a recent episode of Red Table Talk, Smith spoke about his weight loss journey and how it was an important part of his preparation for the role of Peter Smith, a formerly enslaved man.

Smith first drew attention to his weight loss journey in 2021 when he shared a shirtless photo of his "dad bod" on social media and pledged to become the fittest version of himself. He documented his transformation in a series of posts and a YouTube video, sharing his progress with his followers.

"The 'dad bod' picture was my beginning of preparation to lose weight for Peter," Smith said during a recent episode of Red Table Talk. "I was probably 225-ish when I started and at the lowest, on the movie, I got to 195."

Losing weight was an important part of him

"For me, the physicality is a big part of what makes people go 'woah!'" he said.

"To be able to transition and manipulate your body as an actor is a big part of the suspension of disbelief for people." Losing weight was a key part of Smith's ability to fully embody the character of Peter Smith, as well as achieve his personal weight loss goals.

This will be Smith's first screen appearance since his Oscar-winning role as the father of Venus and Serena Williams in "King Richard," a performance that was overshadowed at the 2022 Academy Awards when Smith slapped Chris Rock on stage after the comedian made a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.

We look forward to seeing Smith's transformation and performance in "Emancipation," and we hope that he continues to prioritize his health and well-being.