Hollywood icon Will Smith delivered an emotional tribute at the 2025 Grammy Awards, remembering the late Quincy Jones as the man who transformed his life “forever.” Smith, who skyrocketed to fame with The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, credited the legendary music producer as his “father figure” and the key force behind his Hollywood success.
During the star-studded Grammys ceremony, Smith took the stage to honor Jones, who passed away earlier this year. Fighting back tears, the Bad Boys star reflected on how a single meeting with the music mogul changed the course of his life.
“Quincy saw something in me before I even saw it in myself,” Smith told the crowd. “I was just a kid from Philly, trying to make it in rap. But he had a vision—he told me I was going to be a star, and he made it happen.”
A Life-Changing Meeting
Back in 1990, Jones was searching for the perfect lead for a new NBC sitcom. At the time, Smith was best known as half of the hip-hop duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, but he had no acting experience. That didn’t stop Jones from taking a chance on him.
“Quincy called me to his house and said, ‘You’re doing this show,’” Smith recalled. “I told him, ‘Q, I don’t even know how to act.’ He just laughed and said, ‘Don’t worry, kid. We’ll figure it out.’”
Jones’ faith in Smith proved to be life-changing. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air became an instant hit, turning Smith into a household name. The show’s success paved the way for his Hollywood career, leading to blockbuster films like Independence Day, Men in Black, and King Richard.
A ‘Father Figure’ in Hollywood
Beyond launching his career, Smith said Jones became a mentor, guiding him through the entertainment industry and offering wisdom that shaped his personal and professional life.
“Quincy was more than a producer, more than a genius—he was a father figure to so many of us,” Smith shared. “His words, his energy, his love—it stayed with me every step of the way.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Jones, a 28-time Grammy winner, was one of the most influential figures in music and entertainment. His work with artists like Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Aretha Franklin changed the industry forever. But for Smith, his impact was even more personal.
“Without Quincy, there would be no Fresh Prince. Without Quincy, I wouldn’t be standing here today,” Smith said. “He didn’t just change my life—he changed the world.”
Smith’s tribute was met with a standing ovation, as Hollywood and the music world honored the legendary producer’s unparalleled legacy. Quincy Jones may be gone, but his influence will be felt for generations to come.
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