A Will Smith look-a-like, Shad Ellis, 43, from the UK, has been featured in nightclubs, weddings, and corporate parties for the past 25 years.
Every since Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on stage during the 94th Academy Awards, Ellis says that requests for appearances have increased tremendously.
It costs about $1,050 for Ellis to show up to an event. He says that many people are simply discussing ‘the slap.’
“I had a guy last week stop me to say how much I look like Will Smith. We spoke for a bit, and he ended the conversation by jokingly saying, ‘Don’t slap me.'”
By working as a Will Smith look-a-like, Ellis says that he has been able to buy a home and drive expensive cars.
He says that when he is questioned about the slap, he tries not to pick sides.
“…I think we all as humans are capable of a flashpoint triggered by a raw emotion or feeling…,” Ellis said. “…he shouldn’t have slapped him, but how many of us do an action that we immediately regret…”
Ellis has never met Will Smith although he had been scheduled once to be his body double but that was rescheduled.
Ellis says that for now, he will just keep this gig as it’s all in good fun.
