Will Smith has been scrambling to salvage his career, but his odd behavior and intense persona seem to be doing more harm than good. Former friends and collaborators are steadily backing away. Now, even his longtime Bad Boys partner Martin Lawrence is reportedly tapping out.
Martin Lawrence is so put off by Will Smith’s unsettling vibe that he wants nothing more to do with him, personally or professionally. Smith and Lawrence have shared the screen in four action-packed Bad Boys movies over three decades. But the dynamic duo may finally be splitting up for good. Radar Online reports Smith is eager to keep the franchise alive. However, insiders say Lawrence is less than thrilled about the idea.
Having just turned 60, Lawrence is said to be more focused on his stand-up comedy and spending time with his family than diving into another blockbuster production. The grueling pace of the films combined with Smith’s alleged “intense” personality appears to be a dealbreaker.
Despite the chemistry fans love onscreen, off-camera things aren’t as friendly. Sources say Will Smith’s high-energy style just doesn’t match Martin Lawrence’s more relaxed, grounded lifestyle. Smith, who shares more in common with high-octane stars like Tom Cruise, has pushed Lawrence too far.
Bad Boys Breakup, Martin Lawrence And Will Smith Go Their Separate Ways
Martin Lawrence is content with keeping a slower pace and avoiding the chaos that comes with blockbuster action flicks. The tension isn’t about money or attention. Lawrence isn’t desperate for either. What he seems to want is distance from both the franchise and Smith’s post-slap drama.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die was a major success in 2024, both in theaters and on Netflix. Sony is eager to cash in on another sequel. But insiders say Lawrence has no interest in returning. The physical toll of keeping up with Smith, especially in fast-paced action scenes, may be part of the problem. Another issue? Just being around Smith’s alleged “frantic” energy.
“Still, the movie faces headwinds, and a big one is that Martin pushes himself to the limit. The Insider adds, “Keeping up with Will is exhausting even when you’re not filming high-octane action sequences.”
With Martin Lawrence reportedly pulling the plug on their partnership, it looks like Hollywood’s favorite Bad Boys duo may have finally reached the end of the road. Will Smith’s comeback tour is proving to be a lonely one. His behavior keeps driving off co-stars, looks like he might soon find himself with no one left in his corner on screen or off.
Nina Franklin 
Sabrina Russell 
