Will Smith Reflects on Oscars Incident in New Freestyle
In a recent freestyle released on June 22, Will Smith appears to reflect on the controversial moment when he slapped comedian Chris Rock at the Oscars three years ago. The Academy Award-winning actor, now 56, shared his thoughts during an appearance on Fire in the Booth, hosted by British DJ Charlie Sloth.
In his rap, Smith addresses the notion of disrespecting him on stage, stating, “If you talking crazy out your face up on the stage and disrespect me on the stage, expect me on the stage.” He further elaborates, “Jokers dish it out, cry foul when it’s time to take it,” showcasing a sense of resilience reflective of his Philadelphia roots.
Although Smith didn’t mention Rock by name, his lyrics echo the shocking incident from the 2022 Academy Awards. During that event, Smith walked up to the stage and struck Rock after the comedian made a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, who has experienced hair loss due to alopecia.
Rock’s comment, “Jada, I love ya. G.I. Jane 2, can’t wait to see ya,” particularly hit a nerve, prompting Smith to confront him. After returning to his seat, Smith shouted, “Keep my wife’s name out your f—ing mouth!” This moment became a defining incident not just for Smith but for the Oscars as a whole.
Following the altercation, Smith issued a public apology, acknowledging that while jokes are part of the entertainment industry, Rock’s comment crossed a line due to Jada’s condition. He resigned from the Academy and was subsequently banned from attending the Oscars for ten years.
Months later, Rock shared that while the slap "hurt," he did not see himself as a victim. In March 2025, Smith released his first album in two decades, Based on a True Story, where he seems to touch upon the incident in various tracks.
In one song, his opening line reflects on being “canceled,” and another line humorously addresses the fallout, illustrating the lasting impact of that shocking moment at the Oscars.
Overall, Smith’s recent freestyle serves as a reminder of that event and his journey since, while shedding light on the complexities of public life and personal struggles.
