Will Smith apologizes to Chris Rock for Oscars slap: ‘I was out of line and I was wrong’
Will Smith publicly apologized to Chris Rock and the Academy after his now-viral slap at the Oscars 2022.
“Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive,” he began in an Instagram post, calling his behavior “unacceptable and inexcusable.”
“Jokes at my expense are a part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally,” he continued.
At the 94th Academy Awards, the comedian made fun of Will’s wife Jada, who has openly talked about shaving her head due to her struggle with alopecia—an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss. “Jada, I love ya. G.I. Jane 2, can’t wait to see it,” said Chris, referring to Demi Moore who sported a buzz cut in the film.
The joke caused a heated confrontation between Chris and Will, with the latter shouting “Keep my wife’s name out of your f—ing mouth” after slapping him onstage.
Specifically mentioning Chris in his official statement, he confessed that he was “out of line” and “wrong.” Will added, “I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.”
Will additionally said sorry to the Academy, including its producers, attendees, and viewers across the globe. “I would like to apologize to the Williams Family and my King Richard Family. I deeply regret that my behavior has stained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us.”
“I am a work in progress,” he continued.
This comes after the Academy’s condemnation of Will’s actions at the recently concluded ceremony. “The Academy does not condone violence of any form. Tonight we are delighted to celebrate our 94th Academy Awards winners, who deserve this moment of recognition from their peers and movie lovers around the world.”
In another statement, the organization said that they “have officially started a formal review around the incident and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct and California law.”
