Will Smith Gets His Moment as Neo in ‘The Matrix’-Inspired ‘Beautiful Scars’ Video Featuring Big Sean

Will Smith is still wondering about how the trajectory of his career would have changed had he taken the role of Neo in The Matrix rather than starring in Wild Wild West.

While Keanu Reaves shined in the role, Smith finally gets his shot at the 1999 blockbuster as part of the cinematic “Beautiful Scars” visual featuring Big Sean, which arrived on Thursday (Jan. 30).

“Look, you’ve made some awesome career choices your whole life,” the Detroit rapper — playing a Morpheus-like role — tells Smith before alluding to Will’s infamous 2022 Oscars slap. “There’s only one you truly regret. Well, maybe two. But we’re not gonna focus on that one.”

If Smith takes the blue pill, he can keep his life as is, while the red allows him to go back in time and take on that Matrix role. “I really like my life right now,” Smith replies before swallowing both pills.

“That wasn’t even an option,” Sean says.

“Fly as an eagle, fresh outta Philly/ Yeah, I still rep the city/ Mirrors on the wall worth half a billi’
‘Cause I’m a icon,” Smith brags in the opening verse.

Sean takes the baton following OBanga’s chorus and speeds up his flow while paying homage to Smith’s I Am Legend film. “I’m a livin’ legend, I’ma live and die a legend/ I ain’t tryna get it, b—h, I gotta get it,” Sean Don flexes with his assist.

A closing message from the simulation reads: “Wake up, Will. The matrix has you.”

2025 is shaping up for a busy return to music for Smith, who will be releasing his first album in 20 years as Based On a True Story is slated to arrive in March. The project features previously released singles “You Can Make It,” “Work of Art” and “Tantrum” featuring Joyner Lucas.

Watch the “Beautiful Scars” video below.

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