Will Smith slapping Chris Rock on stage at the Oscars will just be part of the show for many observers. And so it was inevitable that Will Smith memes would emerge across social media within moments of the incident.
The Fresh Prince and Men in Black star, 53, appeared to cuff the comedian and host during the live broadcast.
It followed a joke from Rock about Smith’s wife Jada Pinkett Smith.
Smith later apologised – but not to Rock – during a tearful speech as he picked up the award for best actor.
What did Chris Rock say?
“Jada can’t wait for GI Jane 2,” Rock said, apparently referring to the actress’ shaved head. The 50-year-old suffers from alopecia.
Smith walked on stage and seemed to strike Rock before returning to his seat and shouting: “Keep my wife’s name out of your [blank] mouth.”
The 57-year-old was taken aback by the reaction, with some members of the audience also seemingly unsure how to react.
Nonetheless, he quipped: “That was the greatest night in the history of television.” He declined to report the matter to the LAPD after the event.
Minutes later, Smith won the first Oscar of his career for his role in King Richard.
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