"I am ashamed and my actions are not indicative of the man that I want to become."

Will Smith began 2022 with many movies and projects in progress. But that all changed in a flash. Will Smith had an unusual outburst during the Oscars ceremony in March. He ended up paying the price. Will was forced to leave the Academy after an altercation on stage with Chris Rock. Most of his projects were also put on hold.

Although Will has since apologized, the public has not been quick to forgive him. Will was only allowed to continue with the promotion of "Emancipation" in October. Only time will tell if the public will be supportive of the December premiere of the project.

Here's what happened with Will Smith in the past year...

Will Smith slaps Chris Rock during the Oscars Ceremony

Will attended the Oscars on March 27, 2022 with Jada Pinkett. Chris Rock, comedian and actor, took to the stage during the show to present an award. He cracked several jokes before naming his nominees. He called Jada "G.I." in one joke. Jane, apparently referring to her shaved hair. Jada was saved by Will, who walked up to Chris and shockingly slapped him. Chris then returned to his seat and shouted at Chris to keep his name "out of your f-king mouth."

Chris eventually found his composure again and presented the award. Will was later honored for his performance in King Richard. During his speech, he apologized to the Academy as well as his fellow nominees.

Will Smith Reportedly Did Not Leave The Oscars

The Academy was criticized for allowing Will to stay at the ceremony in spite of his violent outbursts during the days following the slapping incident. In an open letter, however, the Academy admitted that they actually asked Will to leave. According to TMZ, Dawn Hudson, CEO and President of the Academy David Rubin were "furious" about the incident and had "heated discussions backstage with Will’s reps." The Academy also stated that they could have handled the situation differently.

"Mr. "Mr. We are sorry Mr. Rock for the trauma you endured on our stage. We also thank you for your courage and resilience. The Academy also expressed its regret to the Academy's nominees, guests, and viewers for what happened during what should be a celebration event."

Will Smith Apologizes To Chris Rock For The Slapping Incident

Will took to Instagram to apologise for his actions shortly after the altercation between Chris and Will. Will made a long statement calling violence "poisonous" and "destructive" and explaining that he was too upset to hear a joke about Jada who has alopecia and "reacted emotionally."

Chris, I would like to publicly apologise to you. I was not in line with the rules and I was wrong. My actions are embarrassing and they do not reflect the man I want. Will said that violence is not allowed in a world where there is love and kindness.

He later apologized to the Academy, producers, viewers and his "King Richard' family.

Formal Review of Will Smith's Actions Begins At The Academy

In the week that followed the ceremony, the Academy started a formal review on Will's actions. They announced in a statement that the Board of Governors had initiated disciplinary proceedings against Will for violating their Standards of Conduct. They stated that they had given Will notice for 15 days about a vote on his violations and sanctions and gave him the opportunity to respond in writing.

"The Academy condemns Mr. Smith's actions at last night’s show. The Academy stated that they have begun a formal review of the incident. They will examine further actions and consequences in accordance to our Bylaws and Standards of Conduct as well as California law.

Will Smith Resigns from The Academy

Will announced on April 1 that he was resigning as an Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences member. Will addressed the Academy's disciplinary board with a letter stating that he would accept all consequences for his conduct and calling his actions "shocking and painful" and "inexcusable."

"The list of people I have hurt is extensive and includes Chris, his loved ones, many of my dearest friends, and all those present, as well as global audiences at home. I betrayed Academy's trust. I denied other winners and nominees the opportunity to be recognized for their exceptional work. Will stated, "I am heartbroken."

He said that he was committed to "doing the work" to make sure that violence does not overtake reason.

Chris Rock's Mom Slams Will Smith for Slapping Her Son

Although Chris didn't immediately release a statement, Rose Rock, Chris' mother made clear her displeasure at Will during an interview in April.

"He slapped Chris. He slapped us all." Rose stated that he really slapped her because if you hurt my child, then you also hurt me." "You responded to your wife's side-eye and you made her laugh because she was laughing at it."

Will Smith Apologizes in YouTube Video

Will spoke on camera for the first-time since he slapped Chris at the Oscars in July. Will, who appeared to be in tears, apologized to Chris for his actions. He said that he was available "whenever" Chris was ready, but that he had already reached back and Chris wasn't ready.

Will addressed the rumors that Jada had asked him to go on stage. However, he said that he did it because he thought the joke was disrespectful and insulting. He also stated that he and Chris have "history", although he did not specify the details.

"I am human, and I made a mistake. I'm trying to not think of myself as a piece s--t...I realize it was confusing, and it was surprising. I can promise you that I am deeply committed and dedicated to spreading light, love, and joy throughout the world. Will added, "I promise that we will be able to become friends again if you keep your eyes open."

Will Smith Screens First Project Since Oscars Alternative

Will hosted an October screening of "Emancipation," which was previously put on pause in Apple's wake of his Oscars controversy. The movie was shown at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 51st Annual Legislative Conference. The film was not yet released, but the crowd seemed to enjoy it.

Will Smith gives his first interview since Oscars Slap on "The Daily Show"

Will made his television debut in November after the March Oscars scandal. Trevor Noah spoke to Will on "The Daily Show." He admitted that while there were "many nuances, complexities" that led up to the slap but that he just "lost it".

He said that he was not sure what his motivations were for his actions. It was the little boy who watched his father beat his mother. All that happened in that instant...You know what? That's not who you want to be...I was gone. This was a rage that had been kept in check for a long time.

Will stated that he was going through something the night he experienced, reflecting back on what he had learned. That doesn't excuse my behavior. What did you learn? It's simple: we have to be kind to one another. It's hard. It's hard. "When people hurt people, they hurt people," I understood.

Will Smith sends a message to fans who are hesitant to see "Emancipation", because of Oscars Slap

Will addressed fans ahead of the release "Emancipation" with a message. Will said that while he understands that some people might not want to see him on the big screen, he hopes that it won't impact the rest of the cast and crew.

"I totally understand that. I respect the decision of someone who isn't ready and would allow them to be. My team is my greatest concern. [Director Antoine Fuqua] I believe he has done what I consider his greatest work in his career," Will stated.

He said, "My deepest wish is that my actions do not penalize my team." That's the goal I have at this stage, and that's my hope. I hope that the material, power and timeliness of this story will make people more open to the possibility of supporting the amazing artists who are in and around the film.

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Title: Will Smith's Turbulent Year in Review: Repercussions for The Slap Heard 'Round the World
Sourced From: toofab.com/2022/12/30/will-smith-turbulent-2022-review/
Published Date: Fri, 30 Dec 2022 16:12:29 +0000

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