hollywood star Will Smith has publicly apologized on social media after slapping comedian Chris Rock on the Oscars stage,
“Violence is toxic and destructive in all its forms. My behavior at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and unforgivable. Jokes at my expense are part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition is too much for me to bear. was over and I reacted emotionally,” Smith wrote.
“I want to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I’m ashamed and my actions weren’t indicative of the man I wanted to be. No place for violence in the world of love No more mercy.”
The post continued, “I would like to apologize to the Academy, the producers of the show, all attendees and everyone watching around the world. I would like to apologize to the Williams family and my King Richard family. I am deeply sorry that my behavior has affected me.” It has sparked a grand journey for all of us. I am a work in progress.”
The controversy erupted when The Rock took the stage to present the award for Best Documentary and scoffed at Jada Pinkett Smith’s “GI Jane” being in the sequel.
Pinkett Smith has been open about the fact that she has alopecia, which causes hair loss. Smith then ran to the stage, slapped Rock and quickly returned to his seat.
Will Smith just punched Chris Rock and told him “keep my wife’s name out of your mouth” pic.twitter.com/1f1ytdbMRv
— CJ Fogler (@cjzer0) 28 March 2022
“Keep my wife’s name out of your f******* mouth!” According to a Variety report, Smith shouted twice that he was sitting.
The moment stunned the audience, who took to social media as it was not immediately clear whether the controversy was a drama or not. Moments later, Smith won the Best Actor Oscar for his performance in “King Richard.” In his speech, he apologized to the Academy and his fellow nominees, but did not address The Rock.
During the commercial break, both Smith’s publicist and Denzel Washington were seen talking to the actor. In his speech, Smith shared the advice given by Washington: “At your highest moment, be careful, that’s when the devil comes for you.”
Smith’s speech continued, “I am being called to love and protect the people in my life and to be a river to my people. I know what we do, to be able to abuse you.” You’ve got to be able to make people talk crazy about you. In this business you have to be able to disrespect people. And you have to smile and you have to pretend like it’s okay.”