One of the most popular sitcoms of the 1990s was the classic Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Do you know the story of how Will Smith got the opportunity to star in his show?

Record executive and talent manager, Benny Medina is technically the “real fresh prince,” being that he moved from Watts to Beverly Hills in his early life. He created this idea for the show and pitched it to Quincy Jones, who was impressed with the concept.

Benny later pitched the show to Will at a taping of the Arsenio Hall Show. However, Will was reluctant to embrace the opportunity because he had never acted. Afterward, Benny invited him to meet Quincy Jones at a party Jones’ was throwing at his house.

Quincy approached Will about the show and promptly decided to create a live audition in his living room. Will initially decline stating that he needs more time to prepare. Quincy explained that as that time passes, Will may miss another opportunity to audition for all the power players in his house.

Quincy said, “Right now, everybody that needs to say, ‘yes’ to this show is sitting in my living room waiting for you to audition.” Will said, “Give me 10 minutes.”

Needless to say, they went on to create one of the best sitcoms of all time!

Leonard Ravenhill once said, “The opportunity of a lifetime needs to be seized within the lifetime of the opportunity.” In life, whether we feel 100% ready or not, we MUST take that shot! If you have the dream and the opportunity is there, JUST GO!

Stay ready so you don't have to get ready!

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#WillSmith #QuincyJones #FreshPrince #Motivation #Preparedness #Lifelessons #opportunity

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