Will Smith explained why he turned down the role of"Neo" in The Matrix. Smith explained that when he was approached he didn't understand the pitch. He also revealed that after starring in blockbuster hit films like Independence Day and Men In Black, he didn't want to be known as "the alien movie guy." Despite regretting not taking the role, Will said that Keanu Reeves and Laurence Fishburne were perfect for the film. He explained, "If I had done it because I'm black, then Morpheus wouldn't have been black cause they were looking at Val Kilmer. So, I probably would have messed The Matrix up, I did y'all a favor."