Will Smith To Lose Best Actor Oscar After He Slapped Chris Rock? The Academy Releases Statement

From Will Smith's public apology to Chris Rock's denial of a police complaint against the actor, here's everything to know about the incident that stunned the world.

Will Smith won the Oscar for best actor at the 94th Academy Awards for his role as Richard Williams, father of tennis champions Venus and Serena Williams, in King Richard. It was Will’s first Oscar. However, apart from his award, the actor is making headlines for slapping comedian Chris Rock for mocking his wife.

And because of the feud, there’s speculation that The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which has strict guidelines in its code of conduct, could take Will’s Oscar back. However, hours later the altercation, the Academy took to social media to address the incident. “The Academy does not condone violence of any form,” the Twitter statement read.

The Academy statement continues, “Tonight we are delighted to celebrate our 94th Academy Awards winners, who deserve this moment of recognition from their peers and movie lovers around the world.” The Oscar moment, which left viewers around the world stunned, instantly went viral online, even leading some to speculate that it had been planned.

However, amid speculation, Variety’s executive editor Ramin Setoodeh tweeted, “Someone who works for the Oscars told me that Chris Rock was not interrupted by Will Smith at rehearsals yesterday. It was not supposed to happen. It was real.” Later on during the telecast, Will Smith tearfully apologized to the Academy and his fellow nominees after being awarded the Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of Venus Williams and Serena Williams’ father, Richard Williams.

Smith went on to say, “This is a beautiful moment and I’m not crying for winning an award,” he said in part, “it’s not about winning an award for me.” “Art imitates life, I look like the crazy father,” Will, who shares kids Jaden Smith and Willow Smith with Jada and son Trey Smith with ex Sheree Zampino, added. “Love will make you do crazy things.” King Richard star added, “Richard Williams was a fierce defender of his family.”

Men In Black star added, “In this time in my life, in this moment I am overwhelmed by what God is calling on me to do and be in this world.” “Making this film, I got to protect Aunjanue Ellis who is one of the most strongest, most delicate people I’ve ever met. I got to protect Saniyya and Demi, the two actresses that play Venus and Serena… I’m being called on in my life to love people and to protect people.”

While concluding his speech, Will told the audience that he wants to “be a vessel of love.” It was reported that Chris Rock has filed a police complaint against Will Smith after the incident. However, Actor-director Chris Rock has reportedly refused to file a complaint against this year’s Oscar winner Will Smith as per Los Angeles Police.

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