WILL SMITH APOLOGISES TO CHRIS ROCK FOR SLAPPING HIM AT OSCARS
Oscar-winner Will Smith has publicly apologised to Chris Rock after the actor slapped him on stage at Sunday night’s Academy Awards ceremony in Hollywood.
Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith suffers from a hair-loss condition due to an auto-immune disease called alopecia.
While on stage, Rock made a joke about Smith’s wife’s shaven head and referenced the army movie, G.I. Jane.
Smith got out of his chair, got onto the stage and slapped Rock across the face in front of the audience and cameras.
At first, the audience thought it was scripted. But then Smith yelled the words “Keep my wife’s name out of your f*&^king mouth” twice. Only when the audience heard Smith’s words, did they realise it wasn’t part of a joke.
Just moments later, Smith went on to win the best actor Oscar for his portrayal of tennis stars Serena and Venus Williams’ dad Richard.
Since the incident, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences released a statement in which it said it “condemns the actions” of Smith.
“We 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.”
Soon after, Smith released a statement posted on his social media platforms. He apologised to Rock, the Academy, the producers of the show, the attendees and those watching the ceremony on TV. He also extended his apology to the Williams family and those who worked on the King Richard movie.
In his statement, he shared his regret.
“My behaviour at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable.”
“I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be.”
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