Netflix Announces Will Smith's Appearance On David Letterman's 'My Next Guest' Alongside Other Stars

Netflix has revealed that legendary host David Letterman is returning for a new season of "My Next Guest Needs No Introduction," which will feature several stars, including Will Smith.

The streaming giant took to Twitter on Thursday to share a poster featuring the 75-year-old host wearing a plain black T-shirt. Netflix disclosed in the caption that Cardi B, Billie Eilish, Ryan Reynolds, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Kevin Durant and Smith will appear in the upcoming lineup of episodes.

The fresh season is all set to premiere on May 20.

Netizens took to the comments section to share their reactions to the announcement.

One of them noted that they would not be watching the show if Smith doesn't address his recent controversy. It can be recalled that the "King Richard" actor made headlines in March for slapping comedian Chris Rock at the Oscars. "If he (Smith) doesnt talk about the slap i dont want it," the netizen wrote.

Another individual shared an image of Smith's angry face during the awards show, making a vague reference to the slapping incident. In the caption, they simply wrote, "Will Smith!!!???"

Some netizens also asked if Smith would talk about the incident during his interview. However, multiple outlets reported that the actor's guesting was filmed prior to the Oscars, so there would be no discussion about it.

Smith has been marred with controversy since the slapping incident, and many celebrities, including Marlon Wayans, director Michael Bay and comedian Kathy Griffin have since shared their reactions to it.

Griffin expressed her concern for other comedians performing at comedy clubs. "Let me tell you something, it's a very bad practice to walk up on stage and physically assault a Comedian," she wrote. "Now we all have to worry about who wants to be the next Will Smith in comedy clubs and theaters."

Bay, on the other hand, noted that what Smith did was wrong, but he would still love to work with him in the future. As for Wayans, he said Rock should have protected himself.

The new season of "My Next Guest Needs No Introduction" has a total of six parts. In the previous installments of the show, the former "Late Show with David Letterman" host interviewed Robert Downey Jr., Dave Chappelle, Kim Kardashian, Barack Obama, George Clooney, Kanye West, Jay Z and Lizzo.