The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has published a statement regarding the Will Smith-Chris Rock slap at the 94th Academy Awards, which stunned the audience. During the 2022 Academy Awards, Smith smacked Rock on the back after the comedian made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith while presenting the documentary feature category.
“The Academy does not condone violence in any form,” the Academy declared in a statement. Tonight, we are thrilled to honor our 94th Academy Award winners, who have earned this honor from their peers and moviegoers all across the world.”
While presenting best documentary feature, Rock joked about Jada Pinkett Smith starring in “G.I. Jane 2” because of her bald head. Rock was referencing the 1997 movie “G.I. Jane” in which Demi Moore appears with a shaved head. However, Pinkett Smith has been open about her struggles with alopecia, which causes hair loss. Smith reacted to the joke by going up on stage and slapping Rock. Smith then returned to his seat and shouted, “Keep my wife’s name out of your fucking mouth!”
Smith won best actor for “King Richard” following the incident and issued an apology in a tearful acceptance speech. The actor said, “I want to apologize to the Academy. I want to apologize to all my fellow nominees. This is a beautiful moment and I’m not crying for winning an award. It’s not about winning an award for me. It’s about being able to shine a light on all of the people.”
In a statement to Variety after the Oscars telecast, the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that Rock had declined to file a police report. The LAPD added at the time: “LAPD investigative entities are aware of an incident between two individuals during the Academy Awards program. The incident involved one individual slapping another. The individual involved has declined to file a police report. If the involved party desires a police report at a later date, LAPD will be available to complete an investigative report.”
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