Will Smith Reflects on His ‘I Am Legend’ Dog Co-Star
In the world of Hollywood, working with animals on set can be a tricky endeavor. However, Will Smith has nothing but praise for his furry co-star from the 2007 movie I Am Legend.
Smith recently opened up about his experience working with Abbey, the German Shepherd who played his loyal companion Sam in the post-apocalyptic thriller. Describing Abbey as “a brilliant actress,” Smith even revealed that he tried to adopt her after filming wrapped up.
During a recent interview on Hot Ones, Smith shared his admiration for Abbey, stating that she seemed to understand English and was able to deliver incredible performances on set. Despite his best efforts to bring her home with him, Smith explained that Abbey had to remain with her family due to her important role as the breadwinner.
In I Am Legend, Smith portrayed US Army virologist Robert Neville, the lone survivor in a world plagued by mutants. Sam, played by Abbey, was Neville’s faithful companion throughout the film, ultimately leading to a heartbreaking moment when the character becomes infected.
Reflecting on the emotional scene, Smith marveled at Abbey’s ability to convincingly play her part, even when it required her to perform challenging tasks like going limp on cue. The actor likened working with Abbey to collaborating with a seasoned human actress, highlighting the depth of talent she brought to the role.
In a touching tribute to Abbey on National Pet Day, Smith shared a heartfelt video montage of their time together, showcasing the bond they formed on set. The announcement of a sequel to I Am Legend, with Smith and Michael B. Jordan set to co-produce and co-star, has reignited interest in the beloved film.
As fans eagerly anticipate the return of Neville and his faithful companion, the behind-the-scenes stories of Abbey’s remarkable contributions to the original movie continue to capture hearts and imaginations. Will Smith’s fond memories of his four-legged co-star serve as a testament to the enduring impact of their on-screen partnership.