Will Smith - Top Paid Actor

Will Smith makes me smile for an ever-growing plethora of reasons. He is a commanding role model who has accepted the responsibility without whining about it. He carries himself as a man - a loving husband to his wife, an adoring father to his children, a committed and passionate employee of his industry - and he does all of this while making it look as if it was the most natural thing on earth to do. Oh, and last but certainly not least, this man is a walking, talking, living, breathing illustration of a FINE, DISTINGUISHED, GENTLEMAN. Hallelujah.


On July 24th, 2008, reported that Forbes.comnamed Will Smith the top earning actor in Hollywood this past year. From Forbes:

Will Smith

$80 million

A star who turns out blockbuster after blockbuster, Smith pulled in a gross of $585 million with his thriller I Am Legend, more than half of it overseas. When he takes a rare risk, as in his drama The Pursuit of Happyness, his films still make bank. He's keeping this summer warm with his anti-superhero flick Hancock.

Eddie Murphy and Oprah Winfrey were also cited in the Newsday.com article. Eddie rounded out the top five on the Forbes list with a showing of $55 million (tying for fifth with Mike Meyers) last year. Newsday also made a point to note that the Oprah is still the earner to beat - banking an amazing $275 million last year.

We here at Social Angst (well actually, it's still only me right now) applaud the accomplishments of these high achievers. These entertainers turned business moguls are working examples that success IS possible. Will, Eddie and Oprah are helping to change the perception of Black in America (I'm not even going to fight it, 'Black in America' has officially become a catch phrase).

Social Angst Hassle Free Activism:

• Small talk - bring up these accomplishments in your casual conversation. Help balance the face of Black America by offering positive reinforcement of extraordinary Black progress.
• Be active in reminding the young people in your life of these accomplishments.
• Email the article to friends and family. Let's start spreading the wealth of good news in Black America at the same speed and urgency we spread the bad.