Will Smith is a world renowned actor, producer and rapper whose career has spanned many decades. His recent return to the public eye continues as an interest in him and a very important incident at the Oscars continues to make news .
The 2022 Oscars Incident
The 2022 Oscars were home to a very famous slap delivered by Will Smith towards comedian Chris Rock. A joke that Chris made during his speech toward Jada Pinkett Smith caused an outburts by Smith on stage at the time. The event has generated a significant debate as time has gone on while impacting all that have been involved.
Ongoing Feud
Tensions have remained high according to several reports with both actors harboring resentment for almost three years after the event. While attempts have been made to offer reconcilliation there are feelings of “hatred” by both. Their careers were affected after the very public moment of what would come to be known as "The Slap".
Will Smith's Perspective
Sources have reported that Smith has yet to let go of his anger and blames Chris Rock for ruining his career, while Chris continues to get attention for this moment from public outlets. In addition many close to him feel that what happened to Rock recently was deserved and just karma from the events that occured. He still takes the stand of not forgiving Rock .
The Immediate Aftermath
While Smith received the Academy award he was also banned for ten years after. However he delivered apologies at the ceremony as well as to other forms of media for his behaviour that evening which has shown more than his feelings and regrets for the situation.
Chris Rock's Response
Chris Rock does not seem to wish to move past this public experience with public reports showing that he continues to suffer PTSD following his being slapped. All forms of an attempted apology has also been refused with Rock. He has also referenced this in stand up shows. He feels victimized through the act.
The Impact On Both Actors
Both actors have had career and personal changes which have stemmed from that specific moment. Smith had to rebuild an image of himself after the event while also maintaining the spotlight. Rock also deals with what was an on screen event of personal struggle that plays as something humorous and shocking that will remain for a lifetime.
Public Debate
The Slap at the Oscars created many debates on several topics such as comedy boundaries and how violence plays in Hollywood as well as personal behaviour in a professional environment. Smith's action was interpreted in multiple different ways which has been debated both online as well as across a broad number of media sources.
The Different Takes
Some perceived Smith as defending his wife's honor while others claimed his actions were inappropriate. The overall response created new challenges that still exist three years later and have given rise to debates even into the current time line. Both actors will now forever have their reputations marked by a single event that took place in front of millions of viewers.
Will Smith's Recent Projects
While public and social media discussion is about "The Slap" Smith's most recent work includes his role in the film "Bad Boys: Ride or Die" released in 2024. This film is also the fourth film for this series which still holds his original costar Martin Lawrence from past entries. Smith continues his growth as an actor in multiple platforms by remaining in the movie industry.
Key Takeaways
- Will Smith and Chris Rock are reportedly still in conflict due to the oscar incident of 2022.
- Both actors still have deep resentment after three years from the public incident.
- Will Smith reportedly feels Chris Rock ruined his career by being disrespectful which resulted in many personal and career difficulties for Smith.
- Chris Rock is said to be dealing with PTSD from what he endured at the event by being slapped on stage.
- The oscar’s incident is an event that has continued debate regarding all aspects from responsibility to ethics and comedy boundaries to which will continue into the foreseeable future.