On Tuesday, 5th August, “King Richard,” the Academy Award-winning movie directed by Will Smith, will be removed from BBC iPlayer.
Under the guidance of director Reinaldo Marcus Green, this biographical sports drama tells the story of Richard Williams (played by Smith), the determined father and coach who strived to turn his gifted daughters Venus and Serena into tennis greats.
Featuring a talented ensemble, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor takes center stage as Oracene “Brandy” Price, Venus and Serena’s mother. Saniyya Sidney and Demi Singleton step into the roles of the legendary tennis stars, while Jon Bernthal, Tony Goldwyn, Dylan McDermott, and Kevin Dunn round out the supporting cast.
In 2022, the movie that boasts a remarkable 90% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes took home awards for Smith as Best Actor at the Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and BAFTAs.
Baltimore Magazine praised Will Smith’s performance, stating: “This part is a dream for Will Smith, and he plays it with great enthusiasm. Williams is a larger-than-life character who surprisingly exists in reality, and Smith beautifully portrays his resilient, feisty, unstoppable essence.
In agreement with this, ABC News enthusiastically commented: “Playing the role of a passionate father to Venus and Serena Williams, Will Smith delivers a remarkable performance in a film that is unabashedly designed for audience enjoyment. It’s possible you’ll feel compelled to rise from your seat and applaud.
As I immerse myself in the captivating world of King Richard, I can’t help but feel drawn in by its charm. It may be a bit lengthy, but the young prodigies at its heart are as enticing as any real-life champions. Watching this masterpiece, I find myself filled with anticipation for the future legends it might foster.
In conversations with Digital Spy and various other media sources, Serena Williams, serving as the executive producer, praised Smith for his accurate depiction of her father.
It’s incredibly strange for me, but truly remarkable, to see Will portray my father’s role. His portrayal of Richard Williams elevated the film significantly. It’s deeply moving, exceptionally well-executed, and an outstanding piece of artistry,” she expressed.
King Richard is available to stream on BBC iPlayer until Tuesday, 5 August.
The latest Digital Spy print edition has arrived! You can purchase the “Oasis – Live in ’25” issue from newsstands or online for only £8.99.
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2025-08-03 13:19