Wake up with a Smile

Join our newsletter

Will Smith Surprises Receptionist He Met 30 Yrs Ago At Her Retirement Party.

Kindness is powerful. Not only does it brighten our lives, but it also sticks with us – sometimes for decades.

Throughout her career, Anita Scipio made many people’s days with her easy smile and delightful personality. That’s why the iHeartRadio receptionist’s last day of work was so bittersweet for her coworkers, who threw her an unforgettable retirement party… with a little help from a surprise visitor.

anita iheart
Instagram

Thirty years ago, Anita greeted a man whose career was just beginning. She left a warm impression, so when he heard she was retiring, he decided to pop into her New York City office to repay the favor.

That man is actor Will Smith, and Anita couldn’t have been more thrilled to see him again!

anita retirement surprise
Instagram

Smith shared a video of their sweet reunion on Instagram. In it, we see the two of them embrace and catch up after so much time.

“You came in, you were just getting started,” Anita recalls. “And I met you then for the first time, and now to have you back again it’s full circle.”

She goes on to tell Smith she loves him, and the feeling is clearly mutual! Smith affectionately calls her “Mama,” which brings Anita nothing but joy.

anita and will smith
Instagram

While Anita was obviously excited, Smith might have been more so:

I met her at the front desk before one of my VERY FIRST interviews of my career… and yesterday I was lucky enough to see her off into retirement 30 years later. She said I made her day. Y’all… she made MINE. Enjoy yourself, Mama, and keep spreading that love and light wherever you go!

anita hugs will smith
Instagram

Could these two be any cuter? We’re so happy for Anita and wish her all the best as she starts this exciting new chapter. After all, as she assured Smith, she’ll be filling her days with fun, love, and happiness!

Watch the sweet reunion below, and share to congratulate Anita on her retirement.


Share your story & inspire the world.
If you have an uplifting story we would love to hear about it! Share it with us here.

Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.