"They should've done this 20yrs ago" - Fans react as Will Smith is honored with a West Philadelphia street named after him

Actor and rapper Will Smith’s birthplace, West Philadelphia, now has a street named after him. The 59th Street between Upland Way and Lancaster Avenue has been renamed Will Smith Way. The street is by the Overbrook High School, Smith’s alma mater. An official ceremony was held on March 26, 2025, where Smith said:

“Philly, I love you. I am yours. You are mine.”

Netizens were excited at the news as many opined that this was well-deserved. An Instagram user (@raven._) wrote:

“Tbh they should’ve done this 20yrs ago. Atp he a park in his name like Kobe!”

Social media users congratulated him while others shared minor details from his childhood.

“He DESERVES IT!!! in west Philadelphia born and raised on the play ground that’s were I spent most of my days,” a social media user (@pageant.boss.beautystop) commented.

“Now THIS is how you’re suppose to name streets! Congratulations Will, well deserved,” a netizen (@makemecertifiedboutique) congratulated him.

“Well that was the place he was born and raised, even told the playground is where he spent most of his days,” an internet user (@thatrillest.slimlion) shared.

Instagram users expressed their love for the actor while others shared light-hearted jokes.

“Philly’s very own! And 59th street is the epicenter of West Philly, so it’s the perfect street to be renamed for him,” an online user (@whatshaute) commented.

“I could never hate this man. Still one of my favorite actors of all time,” a fan (@bosshannon303) reacted.

“If you don't stop at the red light on will Smith way ....you might catch a smack,” another Instagram user (@equinox_beats_) joked.

The actor explained what “Will Smith Way” meant to him

Cherelle Parker, Philadelphia’s mayor, acknowledged that while she holds the position today, the street renaming wouldn’t have happened without the leadership of the district council member who made it possible. She encouraged everyone to recognize and appreciate his efforts in bringing it all together. Will Smith also took the stage and reminisced:

“I walked across this bridge for my whole high school career in snow and rain and I grew up at 59th in Woodrest in Winfield. So, I was coming from Winfield. So, you know, I was walking over but I was running back. Fortunately, the front of the school was just in the hilltop so you can get back over the bridge get back home walk once you got on the other side.”

The actor also reflected on the meaning behind "Will Smith Way" and what it represents. He explained that when he first heard the name, he started thinking about what it meant.

To him, it embodies the lessons he learned from his parents and grandmother. He described them as forming a triangle, with his father as the foundation, shaping the values that define his path.

Parker spoke about the street renaming, highlighting how Will Smith always takes pride in his hometown. She said no matter where he is or how much success he achieves, he never hesitates to remind people that he’s from West Philadelphia.

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