Will Smith is taking the high road.
Just a day after making headlines around the world for slapping Chris Rock during the Academy Awards for making a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett, the ‘King Richard’ star has come to apologize for the incident.
Read his full statement inside:
View this post on Instagram
Taking to Instagram Monday (March 28), Smith said:
“Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive. My behavior 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.
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.
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.
I am a work in progress.”
*****
The statement comes as polarizing chatter around the incident continues to dominate the airwaves and social media alike.
Further, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has announced intent to launch a formal review of the incident that could lead to the revocation of the Academy Award Smith won Sunday night (March 27) for his critically acclaimed portrayal of Richard Williams in the film ‘King Richard.’
“The Academy condemns the actions of Mr. Smith at last night’s show. 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,” a rep for the organization said.
The statement was echoed by SAG-AFTRA.
“As the union representing presenters and other performers working on the Oscars, SAG-AFTRA is focused on ensuring our members always work in a safe environment,” SAG-AFTRA said in a statement. “Violence or physical abuse in the workplace is never appropriate and the union condemns any such conduct. The incident involving Will Smith and Chris Rock at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable. We have been in contact with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and ABC about this incident and will work to ensure this behavior is appropriately addressed. SAG-AFTRA does not comment on any pending member disciplinary process.”
At writing, no official course of disciplinary action has been announced. What’s more, Rock has indicated he does not intend to press charges.
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Luv will but I think jadas alopecia is his scapegoat. That slap was for everything he’s been though the last coiple years. I’m sure Chris will turn this into. 20million dollar Netflix special so no tears for him
He doesn’t mean it. This is damage control. I bet the Oscars told him to apologize.
Will can F-off right along with Jussie and Kanye.
I love all of those black men you mentioned. Black excellence.
I lost all respect for him last night. It was a damn lame joke about GI Jane. Will even laughed. You can see him, while annoying ass Jada rolled her eyes. Thin skinned ain’t cute.
I’m sure jada was happy will stood up for her because usually he only stands up for his other wife duane martin!
I think a conversation behind the scenes would’ve been best for the both of them. I was in Jada’s seat years ago when Guy Torry singled me out from the front row at an event. The joke was similar to what Chris Rock said and it went on for what felt like forever. I wanted to disappear, but walking out would’ve been more embarrassing. We talked after the show and he remembered me and the jokes he made. He apologized to me and won back more respect than I had for him to begin with.
Hun you don’t smack or attack anyone because ur having a bad week. If ur having emotional issues, you see a therapist or take a long break from social media.
Will’s behavior is the reason Ppl are shot & killed in America. He definitely smacked right person but he may NOT be as fortunate if he continue slapping MFs.
Media apology forced by whatever hand guides Will. Needs time and therapy to heal whatever is going on inside him. Hard to believe he would be that thin-skinned after 30+ years in the business.
OMG Exactly!
He came up in the 80’s & 90’s when Comedians were RAW & unfiltered. We’re talking about comedians like Paul Mooney.
Men Will’s age are usually unbothered by old school comedy. Strange times we’re living in when a 50+ yr man is spazzing out over jokes.
I still believe the entire act was staged for views but it’s really hard to say w/ out concrete evidence.