By A. Stanford

Published: June 9, 2024 | Updated: June 9, 2024

Will Smith delighted fans with a surprise appearance at a Los Angeles screening of his new film, “Bad Boys: Ride or Die.” The action-packed film, starring Smith and Martin Lawrence, earned impressive preview sales and is set to dominate the weekend box office.

In a video shared on social media, Smith revealed his ritual of attending screenings incognito on opening weekends. “We’re in Baldwin Hills, about to go into the theater,” he said, seated in his SUV limo. “It’s a ritual. I do it when I have a movie come out on Friday, Saturday, and usually a matinee on Sunday. I love going to theaters.”

Will Smith, incognito at a “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” screening, shared his ritual of attending opening weekend shows.

Smith, dressed discreetly in all black with a KN95 mask and a cap, enjoyed the film from the back row, laughing alongside the audience. After the movie, he casually walked out with the crowd, greeting fellow viewers. At first, fans didn’t recognize him, but their surprise quickly turned to excitement as they realized they had just watched the film with one of its stars.

Fans were surprised to recognize Will Smith after the screening, realizing they had just watched the film with one of its stars.

Smith warmly interacted with fans, sharing hugs and posing for photos. “I was in there with y’all the whole time,” he told the astounded moviegoers. The film received glowing reviews from the audience, with one fan giving it a “10 out of 10.” The surprise encounter left fans thrilled, with comments like, “That’s how you promote a movie” and “Will will always be one of my favorite humans.”

Smith shared his joy after the screening, telling fellow audience members, “I was in there the whole time with y’all.”

The incident reflects Smith’s post-slap comeback, with fans showing their support and enthusiasm for the actor. “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” is the fourth installment of the popular franchise and is expected to dominate the box office during its opening weekend.

While the film received mixed reviews from critics, with a 57% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, audiences gave it an impressive 97% fresh rating, showcasing the disconnect between critics and viewers.