In a delightful throwback to the ’90s, Will Smith has teamed up with his former “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” co-star Tatyana Ali and rising star Doechii to create a viral TikTok trend inspired by an iconic dance scene from the beloved sitcom. This collaboration not only celebrates nostalgia but also showcases the enduring impact of the show on pop culture.
The viral dance trend
Will Smith, who is no stranger to viral moments, has embraced the spotlight once again. The trend revolves around the song “Anxiety” by Doechii, which has taken social media by storm. In the original scene from “Fresh Prince,” Ali’s character, Ashley, is seen dancing in her room while listening to music through her headphones. In a playful twist, Smith’s character, Will, sneaks in to join her, mimicking her dance moves.
In the recent TikTok video, Ali reprises her role, once again donning headphones and enjoying Doechii’s catchy tune. Smith enters the scene to recreate the classic moment, and they are soon joined by Doechii herself, who adds her own flair to the dance. The caption from Smith reads, “Waited 35 years for this dance to trend,” highlighting the joy of revisiting such a cherished memory.
Social media buzz
The response to the video has been overwhelming, with it racking up an impressive 19.7 million views on TikTok and nearly 30 million views on Instagram within just a few hours of posting. Fans and celebrities alike have flooded the comments section, expressing their excitement and nostalgia. Notable figures like Kerry Washington and Meagan Good chimed in, with Washington humorously admitting, “Alright you won.”
A nod to nostalgia
This dance trend is not just a fun moment; it’s a celebration of the cultural significance of “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” which first aired on Sept. 10, 1990. The original dance scene has become a hallmark of the series, showcasing the chemistry between Smith and Ali. By revisiting this moment, Smith and Ali remind fans of the joy and laughter the show brought to audiences during its run.
Moreover, this isn’t the first collaboration between Smith and Doechii. Earlier this month, the two appeared in a playful TikTok clip where Smith lip-synced to Doechii’s “Anxiety” while revealing her identity in a fun twist. Their chemistry and mutual respect for each other’s artistry have made their collaborations a hit among fans.
The impact of social media on pop culture
The resurgence of this dance trend underscores the power of social media in shaping pop culture. Platforms like TikTok have become breeding grounds for creativity, allowing users to engage with nostalgic content in new and exciting ways. The ability to blend past and present through music and dance has created a unique space for artists like Doechii to connect with audiences, while also giving established stars like Smith a chance to reminisce and engage with their fan base.