Will Smith Addresses Violence Against Chris Rock

Aladdin (2019) star Will Smith is making headlines today for finally breaking his silence on the Oscars incident in which he slapped comedian Chris Rock. In a video posted on the Genie actor’s YouTube channel, Smith addresses the situation, answering questions from eager fans who have been demanding answers.

The video is just under 6 minutes long, with Smith sitting down and facing the camera during the course of his conversation. For those who may be unaware of the circumstances surrounding the altercation, Will Smith took to the stage during an Oscars ceremony after Chris Rock made what seemed like a lighthearted joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.

Audience members and fans initially thought the incident was a bit, not realizing Smith was actually completely serious in his response. Later that night, Smith won an Academy Award for Best Actor, addressing the altercation in his speech in a seemingly halfhearted manner.

After the story blew up, rumors came out about Smith traveling away from the states in an effort to take a step back and reflect on the matter. Since then, disappointed fans have been waiting to hear what the star has to say.

In the video, Smith talks about how he has already initiated contact with Rock. Rock responded that he was not ready to discuss the situation with the actor.

Smith apologizes to Rock on camera, admitting that he is aware of his inappropriate behavior and will be waiting to discuss it with him when he’s ready. Smith also apologized to Chris’s mom and family, realizing how many people his behavior affected after the incident.

Smith claims he reacted without thinking but is aware, after much reflection, that his behavior was unacceptable. Rock handled the incident with class, responding at first in shock, but never resorting to violence in return.