Reaching 50 is a milestone, and everyone acknowledges hitting the mid-century mark in a different way. Some have parties, some travel, some hide away, hoping everyone will ignore it. Will Smith celebrated his big day in a unique and thrilling way and took us along for the ride.
Will took to the skies over the Grand Canyon on Tuesday, his 50th, in a helicopter. Taking a tour of one of America’s most awe-inspiring sights in a helicopter would be enough of an unforgettable adventure, but Will took things one step further. Accepting a challenge from YouTubers Yes Theory, the actor decided to face his greatest fear and jump out of this perfectly good helicopter while attached to massive bungee cords.
The jump became an event, and Will Smith: The Jump was live-streamed on Will’s YouTube channel. Color commentary was provided by his long-time friend Alfonso Ribiero and the entire Smith clan was there to witness the 1,000 foot leap – Jada, daughter Willow and sons Trey and Jaden.
The stunt wasn’t only the most “aw, hell naw” way I could think of to celebrate a birthday, Will also used the event to raise money for charity. Will partnered with Global Citizen to provide aid for their education campaigns which focus on fighting global poverty and hunger.
After the jump, Will hung from the bungee and took in the majesty of the canyon, declaring, “this is some of the most beautiful stuff I’ve ever seen in my life,” later adding, “I’m ready for them to put my ass down, I can tell you this.” After he made it safe and sound on the ground, he shared, “Nothing, nothing will ever be scarier than that. It goes from complete, absolute terror to the most magnificent bliss you’ve ever felt in your life.”
As of Wednesday afternoon, the video has had over 7 million views and is better than any movie Will’s put out in recent memory. You know, I’m turning 50 next year, and I think I will just stick to my original plan of a Vegas getaway. But hey, I’m glad you do you, Will. Happy Belated Birthday.
Photos: Instagram, Getty, WENN
Will Smith is a great YouTuber is not a sentence I thought I would ever have to or want to say but he really is.
I don’t really get bungee jumping. So much more fun to skydive (not tandem!) But he looks like he had fun so Happy Bday!
I know a lot has been said about them, but I very much enjoy Will Smith and his family on Instagram.
His Instagram account is my favorite! He seems like such a happy and easy going guy.
I’m with you Corey – Vegas is a much better idea