The world will say its final goodbyes to an iconic sportsman this Friday at the funeral service of Muhammad Ali in Louisville, Kentucky USA. One of the greatest boxers and arguably the greatest showman of all time, it is testament to Ali that some Hollywood glitz will be made part of his passing – just as it was part of his life.
All aspects of Ali’s identity will have representation at his funeral with some of the speakers representing the comedy (Billy Crystal), the Civil Rights activism (Malcolm X’s daughter Attallah Shabazz) and the historical political importance (former US President Bill Clinton) of his legacy.
Who better than Will Smith then to act as a pallbearer for Ali’s last journey. One of Hollywood’s reining showmen, Smith portrayed Ali in a 2001 biopic that earned nominations for both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. But most importantly the performance was well received by Ali himself and his family – as evident by the honorable duty Smith has been given for Fridays proceedings.
The service will be broadcast live this Friday from 2pm.
Jellyhead Films 