Will Smith’s possible new role as Venus and Serena Williams’ dad sparks debate about colorism

Will Smith could be heading to the big screen as Venus and Serena Williams’ father, but the possible casting has sparked a colorism debate on Twitter.

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Earlier this week, Deadline announced the star is poised to play Richard Williams, the tennis stars' dad, in an upcoming flick titled "King Richard."

According to the entertainment site, the film will chronicle the tennis coach’s life, including his dedication to raising sports champions amid adversity.

Nothing is official yet, but people shared their thoughts about Smith as the front-runner for the role on Twitter. Several said the part should go to a darker-skinned actor.

Some made their own casting recommendations. Mahershala Ali, Idris Elba and Colman Domingo were among the suggestions.

Others didn’t see an issue and said Smith would be great for the role regardless of his skin tone. They even noted he starred in “The Pursuit of Happyness” as Chris Gardner, who is a few shades darker than him.

And a few thought the discussion was “silly.”

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