Update: Will Smith Publicly Apologizes To Chris Rock For ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ Kerfuffle–‘I Was Wrong’
Will Smith has issued a public apology to Chris Rock.
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After slapping the comedian during the 94th Academy Awards, Will posted a lengthy message on his Instagram apologizing for his behavior. He also confirmed that the joke poking fun at Jada Pinkett Smith’s alopecia is what set him off.
“Violence in all its forms is poisonous and destructive,” wrote Will. “My behavior at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable. Jokes at my expense are part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally,” he added.
“I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions are not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.”
The actor then went on to apologize to the academy, producers, attendees, and “everyone watching all around the world.” He also apologized to Venus and Serena Williams’ family and his “King Richard family.”
Will originally omitted Chris from his apology during his acceptance speech for his Best Actor win.
“I want to apologize to the Academy. I want to apologize to all my fellow nominees,” he said. “Art imitates life: I look like the crazy father,” he added. “Just like they said about Richard Williams. But love will make you do crazy things.”
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So far Chris Rock has yet to publicly comment.
