From London Tube Driver to Will Smith's Double
Thursday, 2026/01/22181 words3 minutes215 reads
Shad Ellis, a 47-year-old London tube driver, has led an extraordinary double life as Will Smith's lookalike for nearly three decades. His journey began in 1997 when commuters at Shadwell station noticed his striking resemblance to the Hollywood star on 'Men In Black' posters.
Encouraged by a stranger's advice, Ellis pursued a career as a professional lookalike. He has since performed at various events, from corporate parties to weddings, embodying Will Smith's charismatic persona. His repertoire includes singing Smith's hit songs and making appearances at global marketing campaigns.
Recently, Ellis's career reached new heights when he was hired as Smith's body double for 'Pole To Pole', a National Geographic series. This role took him across seven continents, working closely with the production team and occasionally standing in for Smith himself.
The experience culminated in a personal encounter with Will Smith on a beach in Papua New Guinea. Ellis expressed his gratitude to the star for unknowingly enabling his unique career. Despite his brush with fame, Ellis continues to work as a tube driver, balancing his everyday job with his lookalike adventures.
