Will Smith Slaps Chris Rock at Oscars: Celebrities React, Academy Considers Disciplinary Action

Video of Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars 2022

The 94th Academy Awards ceremony took an unexpected turn when actor Will Smith walked onstage and slapped presenter Chris Rock after Rock made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. The incident has sparked a firestorm of controversy, with celebrities and the public weighing in on Smith’s actions.

Steve Harvey 'lost a lot of respect for' Will Smith after he slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars | Daily Mail Online

Celebrities React to Will Smith Slapping Chris Rock

Many celebrities have criticized Smith’s behavior, calling it violent and inappropriate. Comedians Amy Schumer and Wanda Sykes, who also hosted the Oscars that night, said they felt “traumatized” by the incident. Actor Jim Carrey called Smith’s actions an “assault” and said he should have been arrested.

Other celebrities have defended Smith, arguing that he was protecting his wife from a hurtful joke. Rapper T.I. said he “understood” Smith’s reaction, while actor Denzel Washington reportedly advised Smith to “be careful at your highest moment” and that “the devil comes for you.”

Academy Considers Disciplinary Action

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which hosts the Oscars, has condemned Smith’s actions and is considering disciplinary action against him. This could include anything from a suspension to a permanent ban from the Academy and its events.

The Debate Over Free Speech and Humor

The incident has also raised questions about free speech and the line between humor and insult. Some people argue that Rock’s joke was harmless and that Smith overreacted. Others believe that Rock’s joke was offensive and that Smith was justified in defending his wife.

Steve Harvey calls Will Smith slapping Chris Rock a 'punk move': 'I lost a lot of respect for him' [Video]

Will Smith’s Apology

In a statement released after the incident, Smith apologized to Rock, the Academy, and Oscars viewers. He said his actions were “unacceptable and inexcusable” and that he “reacted emotionally” to a “hurtful joke.”

The Future of Will Smith’s Career

It remains to be seen what the long-term consequences of Smith’s actions will be. He has already been dropped from a Netflix film project, and it is possible that he will face other career setbacks.

What are your thoughts on the incident between Will Smith and Chris Rock?

Please leave your comments below.