The 2022 Oscars were filled with a whirlwind of emotions this last Sunday, March 27. What fans and spectators are calling the “slap heard around the world” has fans and celebrities expressing their feelings about the altercation that took place between Will Smith and Chris Rock after Rock made a joke about Jada Pickett Smith’s hair loss. Smith has issued an apology to both his fans and the attendees of the Oscars stating that he does not condone violence. Smith says, “I want to apologize to the academy. I want to apologize to all my fellow nominees.” Since then, celebrities have been responding to the altercation in an uproar of emotions on social media platforms, interviews, and late-night shows.
Most celebrities and attendees of the 2022 Oscars took to Instagram and Twitter to express their feelings about the altercation. Actor Alec Baldwin took to Twitter to say, “I am not reading much about how, or even if the producers attended to Chris,” the 30 Rock actor continues, “But I love you, @chrisrock. And I’m sorry the Oscars turned into the Jerry Springer show.”
Late Night Show Host Stephen Colbert said on his show, “Let me say something as an objective observer: It’s never okay to punch a comedian,” Colbert continues, “Will Smith was offended by the joke and wanted to stand up for his wife. Fine. Challenge Chris to a duel, or if you really want to hurt a comedian, don’t laugh. That hurts way more than a punch, I promise you.”
Rapper, Nicki Minaj, took to Twitter, saying, “I love Chris Rock. I don’t think he would’ve made that joke had he known what Jada recently shared- but between him and the whole team @ the #Oscars, you mean to tell me not ONE of y’all heard this woman just share this heartbreaking story? #ComeOnSon”
Out of all the celebrities and attendees, over 40 people have responded to the Will Smith incident. Including Diddy, Whoopi Goldberg, Serena Williams, and many more. Similar to the celebrity reaction, fans can be seen reacting to the altercation on social media.
