News

Watch Will Smith’s “Apology” When He Won The Oscar After Slapping Chris Rock

Smith apologised to the Academy for slapping Rock across the face - but didn't apologise to Rock.

by Lavender Baj  28 March 2022
will smith oscars

Want more Junkee in your life? Sign up to our newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook so you always know where to find us.

Will Smith — who quite literally just assaulted Chris Rock on live television — has just won the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in King Richard.

Just minutes after breaking the internet when he walked up on stage, slapped Chris Rock, and told him to “keep my wife’s name out of your fucking mouth,” Smith took out one of the most prestigious awards of the night.

While many speculated that Smith would be removed from the event, or perhaps even have charges pressed against him, he ended up being not only allowed to remain in the ceremony — but was still able to accept his award and give a lengthy — and weird — acceptance speech.

In a tearful speech, Smith called Richard Williams a “protector of his family” — clearly referencing earlier events in the evening.

“I’m being called on in my life to love people and to protect people, and to be a river to my people”, said Smith. “You’ve got to be able to take abuse, you’ve got to smile and pretend like that’s OK”.

It’s also worth noting that Smith received a round of applause, cheering, and a standing ovation when he was presented with the award, despite, well, everything that just happened. Smith also shared what fellow actor Denzel Washington said to him shortly after he smacked Chris Rock — which I cannot stress enough, is a thing that happened only minutes ago.

“At your highest, that’s when the devil comes for you,” said Smith, allegedly quoting Washington.

He apologised to the Academy, and to his fellow nominees for the outburst but — notably — did not apologise to Rock.

“Love will make you do crazy things,” said Smith, which is definitely not the message we should be allowing on live television after this man assaulted someone.

Smith concluded his speech by stressing that “I hope the Academy invites me back”.

Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images