Hollywood Star Will Smith Distributed His Own Money To 'King Richard' Co-Stars

Los Angeles, November 7 - Hollywood star Will Smith, who stars in and produced the upcoming biographical drama film "King Richard" as the father of tennis superstars Venus and Serena Williams, took a step towards helping his co-stars in film financially after WarnerMedia opted to launch the studio's 2021 theatrical slate day-and-date in theaters and on streaming service HBO Max.

Warner Bros., however, compensated its top-tier talent for lost theatrical returns from the 2021 slate. Taking a step further, Will Smith, who reportedly received a hefty paycheck of $40 million for "King Richard", distributed his own money to the film's co-stars, according to The Hollywood Reporter.



The THR report suggests that Will Smith personally wrote checks to the cast which includes Saniyya Sidney and Demi Singleton, who play Tennis superstars Venus and Serena Williams, Tony Goldwyn, Jon Bernthal, and Aunjanue Ellis, among others.

It further states that bonus, given by Smith to his co-stars on top of what they already received from the studio as compensation for the pivot to simultaneous HBO Max release strategy by Warner Studios. The decision, however, got sharp criticism from the top Hollywood filmmakers, including Christopher Nolan.

Meanwhile, "King Richard", which is scheduled to release on November 19, 2021, is based on a true story that will inspire the world. King Richard follows the journey of Richard Williams, an undeterred father instrumental in raising two of the most extraordinarily gifted athletes of all time, who will end up changing the sport of tennis forever. Driven by a clear vision of their future and using unconventional methods, Richard has a plan that will take Venus and Serena Williams from the streets of Compton, California to the global stage as legendary icons.

Stay tuned...