Will Smith starred in a ton of films, from heartbreaking tragedies to intense action movies, and he has even received an Academy Award. But now that Chris Rock’s slap incident has garnered so much publicity, he is more in the public eye for all the wrong reasons. But Smith wasn’t always the well-known actor we all know today. He received a lot of advice back when he was first starting out in the entertainment business, but one person’s words had a significant impact. Another huge name, Arnold Schwarzenegger, encouraged him and had faith in him.

Will Smith received some invaluable advice from Arnold Schwarzenegger

Before Will Smith became the megastar we all know today, he once had some ambitious plans. He aspired to more fame than the daredevil actor Tom Cruise. He looked to none other than the famed action star, Arnold Schwarzenegger, for guidance as he embarked on this ambitious journey. Smith just published a new memoir aptly titled Will, which serves as a window into his life and views. In it, he offered a captivating story about some of the knowledge Schwarzenegger once gave to him.
Arnold Schwarzenegger and Will Smith
Schwarzenegger’s counsel was that being a movie star requires not just domestic success but also international recognition. Smith was informed by Schwarzenegger that being a true celebrity entails being recognized by every person on the earth. He advised Smith to think broadly and not just locally in order to do this. Schwarzenegger said to Smith which was mentioned in Smith’s book via Insider “Consider yourself a politician who is running for the biggest movie star in the world.”

Someone who has achieved success in a variety of fields, including acting, bodybuilding, and even serving as governor of California, offered some fairly solid advice.

Will Smith worked hard to achieve Tom Cruise’s status as a global icon

Will Smith had a high aspiration to become a worldwide superstar. Another figure he admired was Tom Cruise, and he observed how Cruise gained worldwide acclaim for his films. Smith saw that Cruise made a significant effort to tour and advertise his films all over the world.

Will Smith and Tom Cruise
Smith wished to accomplish more. In order to surpass Cruise as a global star, he made the decision to work twice as hard. Smith was adamant, despite the fact that many actors disliked touring and promoting their movies. He kept a careful eye on Cruise’s schedule and made a pledge to himself that he would put in two extra hours in every country.

Will Smith discussed his struggles trying to keep up with Tom Cruise’s hectic schedule in an interview with Insider. He admitted it had a negative effect on his mental health.