Will Smith has made a spectacular comeback with the latest installment of the “Bad Boys” franchise, “Bad Boys: Ride or Die.” The film’s opening weekend raked in an impressive $56 million domestically and $104.6 million globally, marking Smith’s 15th film to reach the No. 1 spot at the box office. This article dives into why this success matters, especially considering the racially charged backlash and respectability politics surrounding Smith’s Oscars incident.

A Box Office Triumph with Bad Boys: Ride or Die

“Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” the fourth film in the action-comedy series, opened with a strong $56 million in domestic ticket sales, signaling a much-needed win for Hollywood this summer. The film exceeded Sony Pictures’ initial projections, bringing a positive outlook for the industry, which has faced a series of disappointing releases this year with films like  The Fall Guy and Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga. Despite not surpassing the opening of the previous “Bad Boys” film, this installment has proven to be a critical success and a testament to Smith’s enduring star power.

The Controversy

The success of “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” comes after a turbulent period for Will Smith following his highly publicized altercation at the Oscars. The incident, in which Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock in defense of his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, drew widespread condemnation, particularly from Hollywood figures like Amy Schumer and Stephen A. Smith. The backlash Smith received shows the undercurrent of racism and respectability politics that continues to plague the industry.

Respectability Politics and Racism

Respectability politics heavily drives the backlash against Smith’s actions at the Oscars. Critics have used the incident to marginalize and vilify him, conveniently overlooking the disrespect shown to his wife. This selective outrage underscores how Black individuals are scrutinized in public spaces, particularly when they deviate from what white society deems “acceptable” behavior. At the time of the incident, it was strange to see how quickly many turned their backs on Smith, especially institutions like The Academy and Netflix, which have stood by white talent guilty of far worse offences.


Selective outrage exposes how society scrutinizes Black individuals in public spaces, especially when they deviate from what white society deems ‘acceptable’ behavior. In contrast, a white actor allegedly chokes his children, who then publicly repudiates him, and he remains celebrated. Brad Pitt’s royal treatment at the Golden Globes, despite being a longtime alleged domestic abuser, exposes the industry’s hypocrisy. Media outlets stayed silent on Pitt’s abuse but expressed outrage over Smith defending his wife. Hollywood celebrates Pitt’s new movie with George Clooney, while criticizing Smith’s box office success with “Bad Boys 4.” This isn’t a defense of illegal behavior but a critique of double standards. The media wanted “Bad Boys 4” to flop to label Smith as unbankable.

The Support for Will Smith

Despite the controversy, Will Smith’s loyal fan base has remained steadfast. Many see Smith’s actions as a justifiable defense of his wife, who was publicly insulted. The response from Black audiences, in particular, has been one of support and understanding. This is a stark contrast to the vitriolic reactions from some quarters of white Hollywood, who have used the incident to further their own narratives and perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

The success of “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” is more than just a box office victory; it is a cultural moment that reflects the ongoing struggles against racism and respectability politics in Hollywood. Smith’s comeback demonstrates the importance of Black artists and their stories in the industry, emphasizing that their contributions deserve celebration, not diminishment by prejudiced perspectives.

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