will smith willow hair

Why Will Smith was left in utter disbelief over daughter Willow's drastic appearance change

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star is a doting dad to three children

US Managing Editor
Updated: August 29, 2022

Will Smith is fiercely protective of his family – as became clear after his appearance at the Oscars this year. The world was shocked after he slapped host Chris Rock, who made a joke about his wife Jada Pinkett-Smith, who suffers from alopecia. 

MORE: Will Smith reveals his heart 'shattered' when son Jaden made a shock request

He subsequently issued an apology, and his family have all shown their support for him – with both Jada and his son Jaden speaking out.

Just months before the incident, the award-winning actor released his memoir, Will, where he opened up about his family life - and some of the lessons he learnt through his children. 

One that stood out in particular was when his daughter Willow, 21, went to drastic measures to alter her own hair in a bid to stop touring.

VIDEO: Will Smith prepares to take a dive into the deepest swimming pool on earth

Willow gained global success following the release of her hit song Whip My Hair, and signed up for a month-long tour opening for Justin Bieber.

MORE: Inside Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith's jaw-dropping £32.3million mansion

MORE: Will Smith hailed a 'hero' as he shares video of terrifying encounter during family time

The talented singer wasn't enjoying the tour and told her dad she wanted to stop at the end of the European leg of the trip.

However, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star told his daughter that was not possible because she had upcoming dates in Australia.

Will Smith reflected on daughter Willow shaving her hair to protest against going back on stage

As a result, Willow went to extreme lengths to ensure that she was heard. "Willow came skipping into the kitchen for breakfast, 'Good morning, daddy," she said joyfully, as she bounced to the refrigerator," Will wrote.

RELATED: The Academy makes new statement concerning Will Smith incident

MORE: Will Smith’s daughter Willow turns heads in a birthday look no one saw coming

"My jaw nearly dislocated, dislodged, and shattered on the kitchen floor: My world-dominating, hair-whipping, future global superstar was totally bald. During the night, Willow had shaved her entire head.

Willow Smith's song Whip My Hair was a global success

"My mind raced and scrambled – how was she going to whip her hair if she didn't have any? Who the hell wants to pay to watch some kid whip their head back and forth?

MORE: Will Smith and Jada Pinkett celebrate wonderful news involving daughter Willow

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"But before I could respond, I felt something slowly turning, shifting, until it clicked into place: In a moment of divine connection and revelation, she had reached me. I leaned down, peered deeply into her eyes, and said. 'I got it. I am sorry. I see you.'"

Will with wife Jada Pinkett Smith and his children

Will shares Willow and son Jaden, 23, with his wife Jada. The Hollywood star is also father to oldest son Trey, 28, who he shares with ex-wife Sheree Zampino.

SEE: Will Smith's daughter is his double in remarkable new photo

MORE: Will Smith continues his social media comeback with comical post

All three of his children have followed him in the entertainment industry, and have all made high-profile appearances with their famous father.

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