'I DIDN'T TAKE A DRINK EVEN WHEN I TURNED 21'

Actor Will Smith feels the digital age has created a huge generation gap

There was “nothing else in the world” actor-singer Will Smith would have done but rap when 12. Cut to 2018, and the 50-year-old is one of the biggest celebrities in the world. In an interview on the sidelines of the recently concluded Hindustan Times Leadership Summit, Smith revealed the secret of his successful career and challenges of raising kids in the digital age. Excerpts:

How do you manage to keep yourself so positive?

I always try to enjoy myself. So, when I meet people, I enjoy [meeting them]. That’s a big thing for me. As an actor, I observe people’s behaviour, speech and things like that. Part of it is curiosity and a bit is professional. Especially when interacting with people from different parts of the world, it is a beautiful observation, (as there are) shades of humanity.

Is this why you chose a career in music and didn’t study further?

I started my music career in high school. Once you drink from that cup it’s hard to go back. I was 12 when introduced to rap. Since then, there was nothing else I wanted to do. I was a good student. But I didn’t see myself in a classroom.

You were famous quite young. How did you stay grounded?

My family was pretty tight-knit around me at the time. I think of them as a triangle. At the base was my father who taught me discipline. The left side (of the triangle) was my mother, who focused on my education. And my grandmother was all about love and compassion. So between discipline, intellect and love, I had a solid view of who I wanted to be.

Did it change when you left home?

I never really had a super wild period. I was 17 the first time we did a show. I remember, someone gave me $1,000 for the performance. I remember thinking I never want to do anything that will make someone not give me $1,000. So I became more focused. I never did drugs. (Even) On my 21st birthday I didn’t take a drink, as I felt it won’t be in line with my dreams.

How tough is it to raise your kids with values you had growing up?

Technology and Internet has changed childhood, forever. Now if something bad happens to me, the whole world gets to know in six minutes. Everyone knows you’ve made a mistake, even if you’re a teen. It’s tough to teach [my kids] that.

Did your son Jaden know about the parody video you made for his record (Icon)?

No, he found out six minutes later (laughs). But he loved it. It’s a strange new world, a father can congratulate his son through a video. I think this is the biggest generation gap in the history of humanity.

Is Bad Boys 3 happening?

It’s about 80% done. Martin (Lawrence, his co-star) and I spoke about it a few weeks ago.

What can we expect in music?

There are one or two singles, a few more surprises.

PHOTO: VIPIN KUMAR/HT