Will Smith was given a major hometown honor this week.

On Wednesday, March 26, the Academy Award-winning actor was celebrated by renaming West Philadelphia’s intersection of North 59th Street and Lancaster Avenue, now dubbed ‘Will Smith Way.’ Along with close friends and family members, Smith, 56, attended the ceremony outside of his alma mater, Overbrook High School.

According to CBS News, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker praised Smith for his Philly roots and global impact as an actor, rapper, and all-around entertainer.

“Wherever you see him in the world, he is unapologetic about letting you know that 'I'm Will Smith. In West Philadelphia born and raised,” Parker said, referencing the “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” theme song. “He's used his creative genius as a unifying tool... We thank you for being humble enough of your people and community, and where you've come from.”

Smith, who teased returning to Philadelphia for a homecoming concert on July 4, also delivered a speech on how the city shaped him. 

“When things get hard, you have to be willing to suffer to change the circumstances,” said the “King Richard” star. “Nobody gets an easy ride. And that was one of the things these streets of Philadelphia taught me, that there is nothing wrong with a hard day's work.”

He continued, “Philly, I love you. I am yours, you are mine.”

The event also comes two days before Smith releases his fifth album, “Based on a True Story,” his first in fifteen years.