Will Smith Apologizes to Chris Rock: "I Crossed the Line"

"Emotional Reaction... Unacceptable and No Excuse Allowed"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Actor Will Smith, who stormed the stage at the American Academy Awards, committed violence and used profanity, has apologized to his fellow actor and victim Chris Rock. On the 28th (local time), Smith posted an apology on his social media. He pointed to Rock and wrote, "I publicly apologize to you. I crossed the line, and I was wrong. My behavior yesterday was not the man I want to be. I am ashamed." He then mentioned the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), which hosts the Academy Awards, his colleagues from the film King Richard, and fans, writing, "My actions have tainted the journey for all of us. I deeply regret it."

Smith was recognized for his acting skills by winning the Best Actor award at the Academy Awards the day before but could not fully celebrate. This was due to the controversy caused by slapping Rock’s cheek and using profanity during the live broadcast. The incident occurred after Rock made a joke that insulted Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. While presenting the award for Best Documentary Feature, Rock pointed to Pinkett Smith’s shaved head and mocked her by saying he was looking forward to a sequel to G.I. Jane. The 1997 film G.I. Jane features a female lead (Demi Moore) who shaves her head during military service. Pinkett Smith has been struggling with hair loss since 2018. Smith explained, "My behavior was unacceptable and inexcusable. Part of my job is to take jokes," but added, "A joke about my wife’s health was too much to bear, so I reacted emotionally."

Smith expressed his apology during his Best Actor acceptance speech for King Richard, but he did not directly mention Rock. Instead, he drew criticism by seemingly excusing the incident as a result of being deeply immersed in his role as a protector of his family. King Richard is a biographical film highlighting Richard Williams, the father who raised tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams. Smith, who portrayed Richard Williams, shows a father figure who is both demanding and full of family love. Through his warm and profound presence, he conveys the sorrows of the Black community and the importance of proper child-rearing simultaneously.

Meanwhile, AMPAS condemned Smith’s assault and profanity and announced that it would launch an official investigation. In a statement released that day, the Academy said, "The Academy condemns Smith’s behavior at last night’s show," and added, "We have officially begun an investigation into this incident and will consider further actions in accordance with our bylaws, code of conduct, and California state law."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.