Apple Threatens to Pull Will Smith Film Production from Louisiana Over App Store Bill, Behind-the-Scenes Drama Unfolds

The drama surrounding Will Smith’s latest film “Emancipation” took a surprising turn as it was revealed that Apple, the studio behind the production, allegedly threatened to pull the film out of Louisiana over a legislative bill that would affect its app store. According to reports from the Wall Street Journal, Apple warned Louisiana lawmakers that if they supported the bill, which would allow app developers to use an alternative payment system on the app store, the film would be relocated.

Legislator Tanner Magee shared that an Apple employee made it clear that if the bill wasn’t killed, the movie would be moved, potentially harming the state’s economy. While Apple denied the accusations, stating they operate with integrity, the situation sheds light on the power dynamics in the entertainment industry.

In addition to this behind-the-scenes drama, Will Smith is now facing a legal battle over his 2019 film “Gemini Man.” A copyright infringement lawsuit alleges that the movie’s marketing strategy was based on a book by attorney and writer Kissinger Sibanda. Sibanda claims he shared his book with Smith’s stunt double in 2012, leading to similarities in themes, plots, and characterizations in the film.

As Smith enjoys a resurgence in his career with the success of “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” these legal issues surrounding his past projects are certainly not what he had in mind. The actor, who has been embroiled in controversy since the infamous Oscars slap, now finds himself entangled in legal battles that threaten to overshadow his recent successes.