It is my understanding that Will Smith actually beat the breaks off dude too. Like a lifechanging kind of beat down … context gives some new meaning to that Fresh Prince intro
Will Smith caught an assault charge in the days following his Grammy win in 1989, after a confrontation with record promoter William Hendricks.
Hendricks planned on pursuing a lawsuit, until his son Sheldon got kidnapped by JBM. Hendricks didn’t know that Will was close friends with deceased JBM lieutenant and leader Leroy “Bucky” Davis.
Will would hang out in Philadelphia even as he rose to fame, and was often seen with another close friend Charlie Mack. Charlie was heavy in the streets in Philly during the 80’s and became a Hip-Hop pioneer after being convinced by Jazzy Jeff to leave the streets.
Charlie’s reputation began to build as he went from Bodyguard, to executive personal assistant to Will. He was instrumental in the discovery of Boyz II Men, pushing Meek Mill further to the masses and etc.
William Hendricks and Will Smith had an argument which escalated quickly. Will had strong ties with JBM, as he was a West Philly kid who made it big.
Will then turned to Charlie, and Charlie gave Hendricks a beating. Hendricks’ left eye orbit fractured, nearly going blind, and he needed six stitches.
Will was arrested and spent the evening in jail as a result of the altercation. That same night, knowing Hendricks would pursue a lawsuit and Will being in financial issues despite the Grammy win, Bucky took it upon himself to intervene.
JBM spotted Hendricks’ son Sheldon, and told him get in the car. The then 13 year old Sheldon complied, and quickly realized he was being kidnapped. A JBM lieutenant told Sheldon there was money on his head and to keep quiet.
Sheldon was released, and allegedly Will paid Hendricks $25,000 to keep his mouth shut. But it was also said Will didn’t have to give him a dime. Hendricks would recant his recollection of the events, and charges against Will were dropped.
Will wanted to pursue acting, and heading to LA was first steps to becoming an Actor. The Feds began to build a case against JBM and Bucky allegedly advised Will to get out of Philly. Will didn’t have the money he needed to get started in LA so Bucky gave him $15,000.
Will would go on to become The Fresh Prince, and Bucky lost his life the following year in 1990 after he got shot.