Will Smith has issued a public apology to Chris Rock after slapping the comedian at this year’s Oscars.
The Hollywood star found himself angry when Chris made a swipe at wife Jada Pinkett-Smith’s “GI Jane” style hair, causing the Men In Black actor to jump onto the stage and slap Chris.
Will, 53, took to Instagram almost 24 hours later and shared a statement with a lengthy caption where he apologised for his inexcusable actions.
He wrote: “Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive. My behavior 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 apologize 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.”
(Image: REUTERS)
The King Richard star who later went on to win the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in the movie, has since apologised to several others.
He added: “I would also like to apologize to the Academy, the producers of the show, all the attendees and everyone watching around the world.
“I would like to apologize to the Williams Family and my King Richard Family. I deeply regret that my behavior has stained what has been an otherwise gorgeous journey for all of us.”
Will wrapped up the statement by insisting he is “a work in progress” and then signed it off with his name.
(Image: REUTERS)
Comedian Chris took aim at Will’s wife Jada, making a joke during the ceremony about her shaved head following her ongoing battle with alopecia.
Will them stormed the stage, smacked Chris across the face and repeatedly screamed, “Keep my wife’s name out your f***ing mouth!”.
He then issued a formal apology to The Academy during his acceptance speech for Best Actor, saying: “I want to apologise to the academy and I want to apologise to all my fellow nominees.
“Love will make you do crazy things.”
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Will’s public apology comes hours after the Oscars bosses announced they will be launching a formal investigation into the incident.
In a statement, they said: “The Academy condemns the actions of Mr Smith at last night’s show. We have officially started a formal review around the incident and will explore further action and consequences in accordance with our Bylaws, Standards of Conduct and California law.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
