Will Smith Brings Tennis’ Most Controversial Parent To The Big Screen
As I was watching the trailer to the upcoming movie, “King Richard,” I was thinking about modern era famous sports fathers. The most current is LaVar Ball father to Lonzo, LiAngelo, and the Charlotte Hornets’ LaMelo Ball. Of course there’s Earl Woods, late father of Tiger. And Richard Williams, father of tennis legends Venus and Serena. What do all three of these men have in common? They are all African-American men who raised their kids in Southern California. Their children achieved amazing, and in the case of Serena and Tiger, arguably GOAT-like success. And all three men were/are constantly criticized for who they are and the methods of teaching/child-rearing they employed. Judge if you wish, but you cannot argue with their success. And in the case of Richard Williams, both of his daughters are major champions who are going into the Tennis Hall of Fame. And he is brought to life on the big screen-brilliantly here-by Will Smith.
The official synopsis reads: “Witness a father’s vision for his children’s future with his unconventional methods and his love as he executes a brilliant plan to take his daughters from the streets of Compton to the global stage.” “King Richard” is in theaters November 19th and available on HBO Mac for 31 days from the theatrical release.
