The creation of the Will Smith-led romantic comedy "Hitch" was far from smooth sailing, according to director Andy Tennant. In a recent interview, Tennant revealed the constant clashes he had with Smith during pre-production, stating, "I didn't want cheap jokes, but he didn't trust me." He described the experience as a "battle" between their differing visions for the film.

Just days before filming was set to begin, Smith attempted to halt production to further refine the script, a move Tennant attributed to the inherent "fear" surrounding a high-budget romantic comedy starring Smith. Despite the initial tensions, Tennant acknowledged the collective effort of the "good creative people" involved. He recalled a particular script draft presented by Smith that he strongly disliked, even telling the studio he feared that version more than being fired. Ultimately, that draft was discarded.

Co-star Kevin James played a crucial role in convincing Smith to film the accidental kiss scene, a sequence that emerged spontaneously during filming near Sarah Jessica Parker's brownstone. Tennant described writing the scene on the spot, and despite Smith's initial hesitation, James' reassurance led to its creation. The scene, which became a highlight of the film, was shot efficiently and impressed Sony's then-chairman, Amy Pascal.

Another point of contention arose regarding the Ellis Island scene. Smith initially resisted due to his belief that Black people didn't historically immigrate through Ellis Island. However, a visit to the location revealed that James Lassiter, Smith's producing partner and close friend, had ancestors who did. This discovery ultimately led to the scene's inclusion.

Tennant also recounted Smith's willingness to film the jet ski scene despite not knowing how to swim. Upon wrapping filming, Tennant felt a shared sense of apprehension about the film's potential. However, a test screening in Las Vegas proved them wrong, with the audience enthusiastically embracing the movie. "Hitch" went on to become a global box office success, earning $371 million worldwide.

Despite the challenges, Tennant expressed no animosity towards Smith, acknowledging the difficult nature of the project. However, he revealed that their professional relationship ended after the film's completion. Tennant also shared his disappointment upon learning that Smith was developing a "Hitch" sequel without his involvement, despite Tennant having pitched his own sequel idea.