Will Smith ignited speculation among fans regarding a potential foray into the Matrix universe. The 56-year-old actor took to Instagram on Monday, January 6, to post a cryptic video featuring the iconic franchise’s distinct computer typeface along with a message that read: “In 1997, the Wachowskis offered Will Smith the role of Neo in The Matrix. Smith declined, opting instead for Wild Wild West, deeming it a more suitable choice for him at the time.”
The text continued to pose the intriguing question: “But one can’t help but wonder: What would The Matrix have looked like with Will Smith portraying Neo?” It concluded with the ominous statement, “Wake up, Will… The Matrix has you…”
Following the post, speculation ran rife, with one follower directly asking, “Is this a hint that you’re going to be in the next Matrix movie?” Another commenter expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing Keanu Reeves and Will Smith sharing the screen, suggesting it would be a groundbreaking collaboration.
However, it has been confirmed by PEOPLE that Will Smith is not currently attached to the upcoming Matrix reboot. This revelation comes after the actor famously turned down the original Matrix film in favor of Wild Wild West. Smith elaborated on his decision-making process in a video essay shared on YouTube in 2019, noting that he was unimpressed during the initial pitch meeting with the Wachowski siblings.
Reflecting on the missed opportunity, Smith stated, “They came in and it was like they’d only done one movie, I think it was called Bound. And they came in and they made a pitch for The Matrix. As it turns out they’re geniuses. But there’s a fine line between genius and what I experienced in the meeting.”
In the same video, Smith candidly admitted that his subsequent choice, Wild Wild West, was not a project he was proud of. He acknowledged that the success of The Matrix may not have been replicated had he taken on the role of Neo, as envisioned originally.
Smith shared insights into how his casting would have altered the film’s dynamics: “If I had done it, because I’m Black, then Morpheus wouldn’t have been Black because they were looking at Val Kilmer. I was going to be Neo and Val Kilmer was going to be Morpheus,” he revealed. Laurence Fishburne ultimately portrayed Morpheus in the franchise, a pivotal role that garnered critical acclaim.
Looking to the future of the Matrix series, the franchise made a triumphant return in 2021 with The Matrix Resurrections, marking its first installment since 2003. Warner Bros. announced in April 2024 that Drew Goddard, known for his work on The Martian and The Cabin in the Woods, would write and direct a new addition to the series.
This forthcoming film will mark a departure from the direct involvement of the Wachowskis, with Lana Wach
