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Will Smith Wins Emmy, Jokes About Not Being That Will Smith: ‘Despite My Name, I Come in Peace’
Sep
At the 2024 Emmys, Will Smith walked away with a trophy—though not the Will Smith most might expect. The English comedian and screenwriter claimed the award for Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series for Slow Horses, an Apple TV+ series, and used his acceptance speech to poke fun at the inevitable confusion surrounding his famous name.
“First of all, relax,” Smith quipped to the audience. “Despite my name, I come in peace.”
This playful reference, of course, alludes to the infamous 2022 Academy Awards moment when actor Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on stage, a shocking incident that led to a 10-year ban from the Oscars for the Men in Black star. While the other Will Smith is currently barred from the Academy Awards, there’s no official word on whether he’s welcome at the Emmys.
Smith used the rest of his speech to thank his collaborators and family, expressing gratitude for their support. He triumphed over tough competition, including Fallout, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, The Crown, and two episodes of Shogun to win the coveted award.
In the Emmys press room, Smith addressed why he chose to joke about his name during his speech. “I thought it was best to acknowledge it,” he said. “I know it’s a name that strikes terror in the hearts of many.”
This isn’t Smith’s first brush with Emmy success. The comedian previously won back-to-back Emmys in 2015 and 2016 as part of the writing staff for Veep. This year, Slow Horses also earned several nominations, including Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Gary Oldman, and Outstanding Supporting Actor for Jack Lowden.
As Smith continues to make a name for himself in the world of television writing, his lighthearted approach to his namesake and stellar contributions to Slow Horses further cement his place in the industry—distinct from the other Will Smith.
