Will Smith Apologizes To Chris Rock: Hollywood actor Will Smith has issued a public apology for punching comedian Chris Rock in the face at the Oscars on Monday. Smith’s apology comes hours after he agreed to review the violent act on the Oscars stage. Will Smith acknowledged the shortcomings in his personality, saying that he was still a ‘work in progress’.
Also read: Watch: Actor Will Smith punches presenter Chris Rock on Oscars 2022 stage for joke about wife Jada
Will Smith wrote in his Instagram post, “Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive. My behaviour at last night’s Academy Awards was 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.”
Smith further wrote in his post, “I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. 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. “
In his statement, Smith also apologized to the Academy. He wrote, “I would also like to apologize to the Academy, the producers of the show, all the attendees and everyone watching around the world. 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.”
It is worth mentioning that Will Smith slapped Chris Rock during the Oscar ceremony for making a joke about his wife Jada Pinkett-Smith. Even after being slapped, Will Smith’s anger did not subside. Smith was heard screaming after he sat down in his place. The video of the incident also went viral on social media.
The Oscar Film Academy condemned Smith for the incident and announced a formal review. “We have officially begun a formal review around the incident and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our bylaws, standards of conduct and California law,” it had said.
Smith and his son Jaden faced worldwide condemnation for glorifying the violence.