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Will Smith expressed his support for the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike while discussing the importance of the SAG-AFTRA and Writers Guild of America strikes for his career.
In a long Instagram post, the SAG-AFTRA member and Emancipation actor claimed it is a "pivotal moment" for performers and authors in Hollywood.
The actor, who received much criticism for hitting comedian Chris Rock during the 2022 Academy Awards, said, "I wanna talk about ACTING for a second." As some of you may have heard, my guild, @SAGAFTRA, is on strike, as are our writing colleagues in the WGA."
"It's a watershed moment for our profession," he remarked, before reflecting on his own 33-year career and thanking his mentor, Aaron Speiser.
"33 years into my career as an actor, and there are still some days when I feel like I'm that kid from Philly who's on borrowed time," Smith wrote, "even though I know I've been extraordinarily blessed and lucky to have worked as an actor all this time."
"It's because of my friend, teacher, and mentor @aaronspeiser, whom I affectionately refer to as 'coach,' that those days when I feel like I don't belong are fewer and further between," he stated beside a photo of himself with pupils at The Screen Acting Studio.
"Coach invited me to an acting class the other day, and I met a group of our talented next generation of actors, and they amazed and inspired me!" he said.
"I'm grateful to coach for continuing to support these talented hopefuls in this art form that I adore and have been fortunate to work in for the past three decades!" Thank you, COACH! @aidan”
"Thank you for your support, Will!" said the SAG-AFTRA Foundation in response to Smith's message. For SAG-AFTRA members affected by the work stoppage, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation offers an Emergency Financial Assistance Programme. Donate today at sagaftra.foundation/donate or visit our page for additional information."
