Will Smith lost out on a highly coveted, potentially career-defining role when Jamie Foxx beat him for the lead in the 2006 musical drama Dreamgirls. While Foxx earned widespread acclaim and catapulted his stardom, Smith missed the chance to showcase his talents opposite Beyoncé Knowles at the height of her fame. The disappointing loss would come to exemplify how Smith struggled for years to find that one transcendent part to propel him to the next level.

Will Smith

Smith has made no secret of his quest to land more serious, complex roles that diverge from his blockbuster Hero Persona. So when the lead role of James “Thunder” Early in Dreamgirls emerged, an electrifying character inspired by music greats like James Brown and Marvin Gaye, Smith aggressively pursued it. But despite his eager efforts, he lost the part that could have changed his career trajectory to Jamie Foxx.

Will Smith Aggressively Pursued the Role of a Lifetime

According to insider reports, Will Smith had vigorously campaigned for the role of James “Thunder” Early in Dreamgirls, a flashy R&B singer loosely inspired by music legends like James Brown, and Jackie Wilson. However, despite Smith’s eager pursuit of the role in the acclaimed Broadway adaptation, he lost out to Jamie Foxx.

Jamie Foxx connected with fans for the first time after his illness in an Instagram video

In interviews, Smith has expressed frustration over being dubbed “not edgy enough” for Early compared to Foxx. He badly wanted the chance to showcase new depths through the complex role. Losing it stung profoundly.

Denied the Chance to Showcase His Talents Opposite Beyoncé

Ultimately, Smith was deemed “not edgy enough” for the role compared to Foxx by Dreamgirls director Bill Condon. Missing out meant Smith lost the incredible opportunity to star opposite Beyoncé, who earned a Golden Globe nomination for her performance. Acting alongside Beyoncé in the buzzy musical could have helped propel Smith’s career.

According to Condon, while Smith’s talent was undeniable, Foxx displayed more of a reckless loose cannon energy that fit the character. Smith was reportedly devastated the role went to Foxx instead of him.

Jamie Foxx’s Career Soared While Will Smith Remained Grounded

While Foxx’s career reached new heights after his nuanced, charismatic turn in Dreamgirls, Smith remained grounded searching for the transformational part he craved. Foxx’s stellar performance positioned him for Oscar attention and bigger stardom, while Smith’s hopes were dashed. Losing out to Foxx denied Smith the chance to show off new sides of himself on the big screen.

Jamie Foxx and his daughter, Corinne Foxx
Jamie Foxx beating out Will Smith for the career-making role in Dreamgirls exemplifies how losing out on that one shot can change an actor’s entire trajectory.

Dreamgirls starring Beyonce and Jamie Foxx is available for rent on Apple TV.