Fans have been left divided after Will Smith issued a public apology to Chris Rock following the Oscars incident. During the ceremony the actor stormed up on stage and slapped Chris Rock around the face.
The Oscars host had made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s shaved head, prompting the response from her husband. Pinkett Smith has previously spoken about her struggles with alopecia and has said this is why she shaved her head.
Mr Smith took to social media and issued an apology on his Instagram account, which was also posted on his Facebook page. It was posted on Monday afternoon US time, which would be the early hours of Tuesday morning UK time.
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Mr Smith wrote: "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.
"I would like to publicly apologise 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.”
The actor also apologised to the Academy, the attendees, viewers, the Williams Family and the King Richard team. He ended the statement with “I am a work in progress. Sincerely, Will."
Some fans defended the actor on Facebook and called for Chris Rock to apologise. Leila Ellis responded to the post on Facebook: “Time for Chris to apologise too. Maybe the slap was a touch too far, but u were sticking up for your wife. Everyone seems far more concerned about the slap than the fact a woman suffering was insulted in front of millions. Come on Chris time for u to be a man and apologise.”
Ritchi Edwards said on Facebook: “Even though it shouldn’t have happened It was in the heat of the moment, any man would of stood up for his wife in that moment when he saw major discomfort. You and Chris are both great and I’m glad you’ve both sorted it. Time to move on with positivity.”
Meanwhile other fans branded the actor’s behaviour as ‘appalling’. Jamie Gregory said on Facebook: “That was horrible and really changed my view about you. I’ve always loved you. But I am happy you apologized. Violence is NEVER the way.”
What do you think? Have your say in our comments.
Malith Perera said on Facebook: “I think an apology ain’t going to cut it! Chris Rock should be pressing charges against this appalling behaviour.”
Ethel Da Costa added: “Dude, so disappointing. Human, actor, doesn't matter. You violated a public platform with violence. You could have walked out with Jada and made a public statement of protest, and bring positive global attention to her medical condition.”
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