Will Smith has posted an Instagram statement apologizing to Chris Rock after slapping him at the 2022 Oscars last night. Chris made a comment about Will's wife Jada Pinkett Smith, and the eventual Best Actor winner took to the stage to confront him.
Here is what Will's statement to Chris reads, in full:
"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.
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.
I am a work in progress.
Sincerely,
Will"
Chris made a poorly-received joke about Jada—who has been open about her struggles with alopecia—starring in G.I. Jane 2 before Will took the stage. Chris has not commented publicly on what happened, but the Academy released a new statement this afternoon that says, “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.”
FWIW, even though Chris hasn't said anything on the record about this yet, Variety reports that he will not be filing a police report against Will.
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This article originally appeared on Cosmopolitan.com. Minor edits have been made by the Cosmo.ph editors.