What Venus & Serena Williams *Really* Thought About Will Smith’s Portrayal of Their Father

In the newly-released King Richard , Will Smith portrays Richard Williams, the father of Venus and Serena Williams, who helped train the pair in their early days of playing tennis.

When the film was released, it received positive reviews from critics, with particular praise for Smith. Our own PureWow editor said that the Hitch actor delivered an “Oscar-worthy performance.”

Now, a recent interview with PopSugar revealed how the Williams sisters really felt about Smith's performance, and based on this response, it seems they were very pleased with his work.

Venus talked with the publication, saying, “There are so many special moments throughout the film, but one of the highlights of seeing King Richard is Will Smith's portrayal of our father.”

The tennis pro divulged that she and her sister were thrilled about Smith taking the part from the beginning, adding, “When he signed on to the role, we were definitely excited because he's the real deal, and he surpassed all expectations. He truly did his part to understand our dad and embody his spirit.”

Smith wasn't the only one that Venus complimented. She also had favorable things to say about Saniyya Sidney and Demi Singleton, who portrayed her and Serena in the film. “Seeing the time, energy and heart that both Saniyya and Demi put into mastering these roles is so inspiring,” she said. “They both have incredible careers in front of them, and to honor our family the way they did, I will be forever grateful!”

The Williams sisters attended the showing of King Richard at the American Film Institute Fest last month, where they posed on the red carpet alongside the stars of the film.

We're glad to know Serena and Venus loved these performances as much as we did.

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